Short-Form Video Addiction and Depression in Medical Students: A Serial Mediation Model of Problem-Solving Ability...

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Medical Education
• Digital Health

Background:

• Depression is a significant global public health issue among medical students.
• The rise of short-form video (SFV) platforms presents new challenges to mental well-being in this demographic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between SFV addiction and depression in medical students.
• To examine the mediating roles of problem-solving ability and meaning in life in this association.

Main Methods:

• A survey was conducted among 1,893 medical students across three public institutions in western China.
• Statistical analyses were employed to assess the relationships between SFV addiction, depression, problem-solving ability, and meaning in life.

Main Results:

• A significant positive association was found between SFV addiction and depression.
• Both problem-solving ability and meaning in life independently mediated the relationship.
• A serial mediation effect was observed, with problem-solving ability preceding meaning in life.

Conclusions:

• SFV addiction is associated with increased depression among medical students.
• Problem-solving skills and a sense of meaning in life are crucial factors that may mitigate this association.
• Findings suggest potential targets for mental health interventions and prevention programs for medical students facing SFV addiction.