Associations of Various Internet Device Use and Activities with Depression in Chinese Adolescents: Gender and Geographical Differences

Abstract

Abstract Purpose Chinese adolescents are increasingly using multiple devices to engage in various Internet activities. This study sought to examine the associations of diverse Internet device use and distinct activities with depression among Chinese adolescents across genders and geographical locations. Methods We used data from China Family Panel Studies (CFPS), a national survey conducted in 2020. Results Moderate use of different Internet devices posed no risk of depression and could even alleviate it. Posting WeChat Moments frequently was positively linked to depression. Regarding gender differences, mobile device usage time and frequency of watching short videos were associated with higher levels of depression in girls, while opposite associations were observed in boys. Regarding geographical differences, moderate use of mobile devices (1–3 hours per day) and desktop devices (< 1 hour per day), including watching short videos and posting low-frequency on WeChat Moments, were associated with lower risk of depression among rural adolescents. Long-time desktop device use (> 1 hour per day), playing online games, daily online learning, and posting high-frequency on WeChat Moments could increase their risk of depression. In contrast, desktop device use and moderate mobile device use (1–3 hours per day), mainly represented by watching short videos and posting low-frequency on WeChat Moments, were related to depression among adolescents in provincial capitals, prefecture-level cities, or counties. Daily online learning, playing games, and posting WeChat Moments frequently could relieve their depression. Conclusion The risk factors for depression related to Internet device use and activity varied between adolescents across genders and geographical locations.