Influence of internet and mobile dependence on subjective well-being and reading motivation in schoolchildren: The mediating role of family social support

Perea-Carretero I.J.; Quinteros-Zúñiga D.; Turpo-Chaparro J.; Huancahuire-Vega S.; Malca-Peralta S.S.; Saintila J.; Ruiz-Mamani P.G. · Acta Psychologica (2025) · DOI: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2025.105588

Resumen

Background: In recent years, dependence on the internet and smartphones has become a significant concern for society. Objective: The aim of this study is to determine the mediating role of family social support in the relationship between internet and mobile dependence and subjective well-being and reading motivation in Peruvian schoolchildren. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 972 Peruvian schoolchildren of both genders, aged between 12 and 18 years (M = 14.17, SD = 1.36). Correlation analyses between study variables were performed using Spearman's Rho correlation coefficient. Additionally, a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted through structural equation modeling (SEM), and the Weighted Least Squares Mean and Variance adjusted (WLMS) estimation method was employed. Results: The results showed that internet and mobile dependence has a direct effect on family social support. Furthermore, family social support is directly associated with subjective well-being. A positive relationship was also found between family social support and reading motivation. Moreover, it was observed that the effects of internet and mobile dependence on subjective well-being and reading motivation are moderated by family social support. Conclusions: This study supports the existing literature indicating that family social support serves as a mediator in the influence of internet and mobile phone dependency on the subjective well-being and reading motivation of Peruvian schoolchildren.

Instituciones: Universidad Privada San Juan Bautista; Universidad Peruana Unión; Universidad Señor de Sipán