Family functioning and problematic usage of the internet in youth: A cross-sectional investigation

Problematic usage of the internet (PUI) refers to maladaptive use of the Internet linked to functional impairment as a growing concern in many countries. Youths are often considered more vulnerable to PUI than other age groups. The relationship between PUI and family dynamics is likely bidirectional and complex, warranting further research. Using a cross-sectional study design, we aimed to determine the rate of PUI and the association between PUI and family functioning in a South African sample between the ages of 18 and 30 years.

South African youths were recruited via email and social media. Respondents completed an online survey as part of a cross-sectional study to assess the extent and the types of activities for which they use the internet, as well as the quality of their family relationships and functioning, employing standardised questionnaires (including the IAT-10) and the General Functioning Scale of the Family Assessment Device (GF-FAD). The sample included 814 participants (65% female; aged 21 years; SD 3 years).

15.5% of our sample presented with PUI. There was a significant, moderate positive correlation between totals on the IAT-10 and GF-FAD (r = 0.33, p < .001). An independent samples t-test found that individuals with self-reported PUI (GF-FAD: M = 2.57, SD = 0.51) had significantly poorer quality family functioning than individuals without PUI (GF-FAD: M = 2.13, SD = 0.61; t (812) = -7.52, p < .001; Cohen's d = -0.73, 95% CI [-0.92, -0.54]). Correlations were found between increased time spent on various online activities, including pornography (r = 0.20, p < 0.001), cyberbullying (r = 0.17, p < 0.001), social networking (r = 0.11, p = 0.003), and streaming media (r = 0.11, p = 0.003), and poorer quality family functioning.

PUI is common in South African youth. Presence of PUI and increased PUI severity were associated with worse family functioning in this sample. We recommend using family-based approaches in promoting a healthy family environment, and in the prevention of PUI and mitigation of its effects, with the goal of striking a balance between the benefits of the internet and its potential role in compromising aspects of family relationships.