A Chain Mediation Model of Basic Need Satisfaction and Self-Concept Clarity Between Harsh Parenting and Problematic Internet Use Among Adolescents

J Interpers Violence. 2024 Dec 23:8862605241307230. doi: 10.1177/08862605241307230. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

This study presents a model of harsh parenting that has an indirect and direct effect on problematic Internet use (PIU) through the mediating process of basic need satisfaction and self-concept clarity. A sample of 490 Chinese middle-school adolescents completed anonymous questionnaires regarding harsh parenting, PIU, basic need satisfaction, and self-concept clarity during class sessions. After controlling the sex, grade, and history of Internet use, harsh parenting was positively related to PIU. Moreover, basic need satisfaction and self-concept clarity mediated the association between harsh parenting and PIU among adolescents. These findings indicate that basic need satisfaction and self-concept clarity are protective factors in reducing the negative effect of harsh parenting on PIU. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.

Keywords: adolescents; basic need satisfaction; harsh parenting; problematic internet use; self-concept clarity.