6. Family Functioning and Internet Use Among School-Aged Children

Title(KR)

• 가족기능이 아동의 인터넷 사용에 미치는 영향

Title(ENG)

• Family Functioning and Internet Use Among School-Aged Children

Keywords(KR)

• Internet use, Internet gaming, family functioning

Keywords(ENG)

• Internet use, Internet gaming, family functioning

Author

• Yeonggeul Lee, Hee Chul Kim

Abstract(ENG)

Internet has become a crucial factor affecting children’s lives. Accordingly, researchers are paying attention to patterns and predictors of Internet use among children. However, little research exists on the relationship between family functioning and Internet use. In response to this gap, this study examines the association between family functioning and Internet use among school-aged children. As primary analyses, structural equation modeling was employed and gender differences were examined. The findings highlight the importance of family functioning on Internet use among school-aged children. Lower levels of family functioning led to more time using the Internet and was mediated by the purposes of Internet usage. The findings suggest that parental and community efforts to improve family functioning may prevent Internet overuse or misuse among school-aged children. Also, there is a need to consider gender differences regarding Internet use within the context of policy-making.

Page 37-48