Social Media Addiction, Escapism and Coping Strategies are Associated with the Problematic Internet Use of Adolescents in Turkey: A Multi-center Study

Abstract

Background: The literature highlighted that problematic internet use (PIU) can have detrimental consequences on individuals' well-being. Social media addiction, escapism and coping skills are closely related to PIU. However, no study has currently examined the relationship between PIU and social media use, escapism and coping skills. Method: This multicenter cross-sectional designed study evaluated the relationships between PIU and social media addiction, escapism, and coping skills in adolescents aged 14-18 years. Results: The results showed that PIU was associated with duration of social media use, impairment in social media-related functionality, preferring virtual life, and virtual pleasure, escapism, avoidant and negative coping strategies. Conclusion: These findings may provide an empirical basis for PIU prevention and intervention in adolescence.