Screen time, social support, and depression among international university students
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35622/Keywords:
college students, depression, screen time, social supportAbstract
Objective: This study aims to explore the relationship between objectively measured screen time and depression. Moreover, it seeks to determine whether social support mediates the relationship between depression and objectively measured screen time. Methods: This cross-sectional study included a sample of 121 international college students. Screen time was measured using logged data from participants’ phones. Basic anthropometric data were collected with a stadiometer and bioimpedance analysis. The Zung Depression Scale was used to assess depression, and the Interpersonal Support Evaluation List was applied to assess social support. Data analysis involved correlation and t-test analyses, followed by a path mediation analysis. Results: The current data suggest that there is no direct association between depression and screen time, as no correlation was found between these variables (r(85) = .03, p > .05), nor were meaningful differences in screen time observed between depressed and non-depressed groups (t(85) = –.19, p = 0.85). However, an indirect association was established through a path model in which social support acted as a mediator (p < .05). Conclusion: Screen time alone is not indicative of depression; however, social support can significantly mediate their relationship. Consequently, lowering screen time may not lead to a reduction in depressive symptoms, as more subtle factors may influence this association. Therefore, the relationship between phone use and depression is complex and requires further investigation using more advanced methods.
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