Problematic Internet Use at Junior and High School in Padang, Indonesia: The Interplay of Self-Esteem and Social Acceptance

Abstract

The objective of this study is to examine the influence and the role of social acceptance and self-esteem on problematic internet use among adolescents in Padang, Indonesia. A cross-sectional study design was used in this study, with a convenience sampling technique involving 668 participants (259 males and 409 females) from twenty-one junior high schools and senior high schools. The data collection instruments that have been used in this study are the Generalized Problematic Internet Use Scale 2, the Self-Esteem Scale, and Social Acceptance scale. The data collected from the adolescents was then analyzed in a quantitative and descriptive method. Descriptive analysis included the collection of general demographic data, quantitative analysis using correlation analysis statistics to ascertain relationships between variables, and evaluation of influence and mediation effects between research variables using SEM (Structural Equation Model). The findings of the research indicate a significant negative correlation between self-esteem and problematic internet use, as well as between social acceptance and problematic internet use. Furthermore, it was discovered that problematic internet use behavior is partially mediated by social acceptance and self-esteem. In conclusion, self-esteem and social acceptance demonstrate a significant relationship and can predict problematic internet use among adolescents in Padang city, Indonesia. The results and findings of the research lead to recommendations and suggestions regarding the prevention and reduction of Problematic Internet Use among adolescents.