The association between problematic cellular phone use and risky behaviors and low self-esteem among Taiwanese adolescents

Yuan Sheng Yang, Ju Yu Yen, Chih Hung Ko, Chung Ping Cheng, Cheng Fang Yen

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

94 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Background. Cellular phone use (CPU) is an important part of life for many adolescents. However, problematic CPU may complicate physiological and psychological problems. The aim of our study was to examine the associations between problematic CPU and a series of risky behaviors and low self-esteem in Taiwanese adolescents. Methods. A total of 11,111 adolescent students in Southern Taiwan were randomly selected into this study. We used the Problematic Cellular Phone Use Questionnaire to identify the adolescents with problematic CPU. Meanwhile, a series of risky behaviors and self-esteem were evaluated. Multilevel logistic regression analyses were employed to examine the associations between problematic CPU and risky behaviors and low self-esteem regarding gender and age. Results. The results indicated that positive associations were found between problematic CPU and aggression, insomnia, smoking cigarettes, suicidal tendencies, and low self-esteem in all groups with different sexes and ages. However, gender and age differences existed in the associations between problematic CPU and suspension from school, criminal records, tattooing, short nocturnal sleep duration, unprotected sex, illicit drugs use, drinking alcohol and chewing betel nuts. Conclusions. There were positive associations between problematic CPU and a series of risky behaviors and low self-esteem in Taiwanese adolescents. It is worthy for parents and mental health professionals to pay attention to adolescents' problematic CPU.

Original languageEnglish
Article number217
JournalBMC Public Health
Volume10
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2010

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

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