This study aims to explore in-depth the problematic use of smart media (PSMU) among young children, which is rapidly increasing. Adopting a psychological perspective, we identify factors contributing to PSMU in young children and suggest appropriate...
This study aims to explore in-depth the problematic use of smart media (PSMU) among young children, which is rapidly increasing. Adopting a psychological perspective, we identify factors contributing to PSMU in young children and suggest appropriate guidance and effective interventions.
In Study 1, we developed and validated a scale to measure PSMU for young children 18 months to 5 years old. The scale items were finalized through small group interviews with mothers for initial item development, content validation, pilot testing, and exploratory factor analysis. We conducted confirmatory factor analysis, correlation analysis, mean comparisons, and nomological network analysis to verify the scale’s validity. The results indicated that the PSMU scale for toddlers is reliable and valid, as evidenced by its internal consistency and validity.
In Study 2, we measured the longitudinal problematic use of smart media among 3- to 5-year-old children and examined its relationships with predictor variables using PSMU developed in Study 1. We analyzed latent growth models of child variables using data collected at three-time points with a 90-day interval, validating the longitudinal reciprocal relationship between PSMU in toddlers, maternal parenting behaviors, and child self-regulation.
In Study 3, we classified latent profile groups into indicator variables comprising the child self-regulation sub-factors (behavioral, impulsive, and attentional regulation) and maternal parenting behaviors (positive, inconsistent, and punitive). By classifying various latent groups based on child characteristics and parenting environment, we explored combinations of vulnerability and protective factors related to PSMU in young children using the DE3STEP approach.
The main findings of this study are as follows:
First, the PSMU scale among infants and toddlers reliably and validly measures children's craving for smart media, as well as their levels of dependence and parental permission, as reported by parents.
Second, PSMU in toddlers follows a linear trajectory over time. The timing of smart media initiation had a more significant impact on problematic use than demographic characteristics such as child gender, age, or maternal work status. Child self-regulation also exhibited linear changes over time, with higher levels of self-regulation observed in older children, boys, and those who started using smart media after the age of two.
Third, a reciprocal relationship was validated among maternal parenting behaviors, PSMU in toddlers, and child self-regulation. Maternal parenting behaviors at the first time point significantly influenced the mid-point values of PSMU and child self-regulation, which, in turn, predicted maternal parenting behaviors at the third time point. Furthermore, a significant correlation was found between the mid-point values and growth rates of PSMU and child self-regulation, confirming their interrelatedness.
Fourth, in the conditional model, maternal positive parenting behaviors played a significant role in predicting positive aspects of child behavior and self-regulation, while negative parenting behaviors had greater predictive power for problematic behaviors and PSMU, as indicated by the standardized coefficients.
Fifth, child self-regulation and maternal parenting behaviors were classified into latent profile groups based on their respective characteristics: average group, protective parenting group, mutual protective group, and parenting vulnerability and dual vulnerability groups. Both the parenting vulnerability and dual vulnerability groups exhibited the highest levels of craving, dependence, and permission regarding PSMU, while the mutual protective and protective parenting groups were the safest.
Sixth, latent profile analysis revealed that maternal parenting behaviors served as both risk and protective factors for all aspects of PSMU in toddlers, while child self-regulation interacted with and was influenced by maternal influences in all dimensions of craving, dependence, and permission.
This study developed and validated a scale for PSMU that considers the developmental stages of infants and toddlers and the patterns of smart media use at home. It also shed lights on the multifaceted relationship between maternal parenting behaviors and child self-regulation in the context of PSMU. The findings provide a foundation for further research on PSMU among toddlers and supports accurate assessment and appropriate early interventions.