The effect of Internet use on adolescents’ lifestyles: A national survey

Computer and Internet technology continues to influence people’s lives, especially those of adolescents. The aim of this study was to explore the association between Internet use and adolescents’ lifestyles. With data from a cross-sectional survey conducted in China in 2009, a model revealing the effects of Internet use on adolescents’ lifestyles was established from a series of hierarchical regression analyses. The model shows that certain Internet habits, such as excessive online time, accessing the Internet in an Internet bar, and using the Internet for catharsis, are related to poor lifestyle habits in adolescents; however, using the Internet for purposes such as gaining knowledge and finding information positively predicts healthy lifestyles in adolescents. Implications regarding the relationship between Internet use and the lifestyles of adolescents are discussed.

► We executed a national survey about Internet use and lifestyles of adolescents.
► Gender and grade effects on Internet use and lifestyles were found.
► Unfavorable Internet use factors were related to adolescents’ poor lifestyles.
► Constructive Internet use positively predicted healthy lifestyles.