Problematic Internet Use and Family Rules Among Children and Adolescents

This study investigates the relationship between problematic Internet use (PIU) and family rules regarding Internet use among children and adolescents. Although the Internet offers valuable development opportunities, excessive use is associated with adverse outcomes. Family-related factors have been discussed in relation to PIU prevention; however, empirical evidence regarding the establishment and maintenance of family rules remains limited. Data were obtained from a large-scale administrative survey conducted in Japan, including 8534 elementary and junior high school students. PIU was assessed using the Young Diagnostic Questionnaire. Family rules were classified according to their presence, the rule-setting process (parents only, parents and children collaboratively, or children), and the degree of adherence. Associations between family rules and PIU were examined using logistic regression analyses adjusted for sex, grade, and time spent on the Internet on weekdays and holidays. The results indicated that having previously established but no longer maintained family rules was associated with higher odds of PIU. In contrast, collaboratively established rules between parents and children were associated with lower odds of PIU, whereas rules determined by parents alone were associated with higher odds of PIU. Additionally, lower adherence to family rules was associated with higher odds of PIU. Collectively, these findings suggest that not only the presence of family rules but also the process through which they are established and adhered to are associated with PIU among children and adolescents. Accordingly, collaborative rule-setting and rule adherence may be relevant family processes to consider in future longitudinal and intervention research on PIU.