Relationship between Problematic Internet Use and emotional variables in childhood and adolescence: systematic review of longitudinal evidence.

PURPOSE: Problematic Internet Use (PIU) has been associated with emotional difficulties in childhood and adolescence. However, the directionality of this relationship remains unclear due to the lack of terminological consensus and wide variability in prevalence estimates. This systematic review aims to synthesize the longitudinal evidence on the directionality of the relationship between emotional variables (depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation) and PIU in children and adolescents.

METHOD: Following PRISMA guidelines, five databases were consulted (Scopus, Web of Science, PsycNet, ProQuest Central, PubMed). After the screening process, 31 longitudinal studies met the inclusion criteria. Methodological quality was assessed using QualSyst. Registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024627122). The search strategy did not impose limits by year of publication.

RESULTS

Most studies support a bidirectional relationship between emotional distress and PIU, although some identify unidirectional patterns depending on the conceptualization used. Advanced analyses (such as cross-lagged panel models and latent class analyses) reveal persistent comorbidity trajectories and highlight key mediators such as low self-esteem and maladaptive emotional regulation strategies.

CONCLUSIONS

Emotional problems and PIU tend to mutually reinforce each other over time. Greater conceptual clarity, culturally sensitive assessment tools, and early interventions focused on developing emotional skills and healthy digital habits are needed.