Longitudinal Relationship Between Smartphone Dependence and Externalizing Behavior Problems: An Autoregressive Cross-Lagged Model
- Author:
Ji Young CHOI
1
;
Ji Hyeon KANG
Author Information
- Publication Type:Original Article
- From:Psychiatry Investigation 2025;22(3):287-292
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Objective:This study investigates the reciprocal, longitudinal relationship between smartphone dependence and externalizing behavior problems in children.
Methods:A total of 379 school-aged children (7–12 years old) were assessed using the Smartphone Overdependency Observer Scale and the Korean Version of the Child Behavior Checklist for Ages 6–18 at four six-month intervals from June 2021 to June 2022. Among them, 338 children completed at least two assessments. An autoregressive cross-lagged model was employed to examine the bidirectional relationships and temporal stability between smartphone overdependence and externalizing behavior problems while controlling for gender, age, and baseline internalizing behavior problems.
Results:Both variables demonstrated significant autoregressive effects, indicating stability over time. Cross-lagged analysis revealed that higher smartphone dependence predicted increased externalizing behavior problems in subsequent periods while externalizing behavior problems did not predict future smartphone dependence.
Conclusion:Smartphone dependence appears to contribute to externalizing behavior problems in children, highlighting the critical need for early interventions that promote healthy digital habits to mitigate behavioral challenges.
