Gender differences in associations between parental problem drinking and early adolescents' Internet addiction

Purpose The purpose was to examine gender differences between parental problem drinking (PPD) and early adolescents' Internet addiction (IA). Design and Methods This was a cross-sectional, correlational design with 519 (266 boys and 253 girls) early adolescents. Results PPD had a significant direct effect on IA in boys but not in girls. Significant indirect effects of PPD on IA were evidenced via anxiety-depression and aggression for boys and via family function and aggression for girls. Practice Implications Findings suggest that tailored interventions for the prevention of IA should consider gender.