Procrastination Predicts Future Internet Use Disorders in Adolescents but Not Vice Versa: Results from a 12-Month Longitudinal Study

Abstract

Background: Use of Internet applications is often associated with postponing real-life obligations. Previous cross-sectional studies have reported a positive association between procrastination and Internet use disorders (IUDs). Further, procrastination is included in theoretical models explaining the development of IUDs. However, little is known about the temporal relationship; thus, longitudinal studies identifying the specific predictive direction are required. Methods: Using a cross-lagged panel design, a total of 240 students who were at high risk for IUDs, aged between 12 and 18 years (M = 15.17, SD = 1.66) were assessed at baseline (t1) and reassessed one year later (t2) with standardized measures for IUDs and procrastination. Results: Our results showed that IUD symptom severity at t2 was significantly predicted both by IUD symptom severity at t1 and procrastination at t1. However, procrastination at t2 was predicted only by procrastination at t1 but not by IUD symptom severity at t1. Conclusions: We could not find a reciprocal relationship between procrastination and IUD symptom severity. Procrastination appears to be a causal risk factor for IUDs, but not a consequence. As a modifiable risk factor, procrastination is a promising starting point for preventive and therapeutic interventions for IUDs.

Procrastination Mediates the Relationship between Problematic TikTok Use and Depression among Young Adults

“…On the other hand, procrastination was previously considered a causal factor of PSMU in longitudinal studies [ 63 , 105 ]. According to a survey, 67% of students said that TikTok caused them to procrastinate (e.g., not do homework for school), and 69% of students said they felt addicted to the app [ 59 ].…”

“…PTTU is associated with spending time on entertainment instead of pursuing important goals, which increases stress and anxiety (because essential goals are not achieved) and ultimately increases depression. People with chronic procrastination, characterized by low self-control levels and a greater tendency to avoid unpleasant activities and duties, can spend more time using social media (including TikTok), which, in turn, could lead to a shift in the precious resource of time and increase procrastination [ 63 , 64 , 65 , 66 ].…”

The Role of Self-Control Dimensions, Game Motivation, Game Genre, and Game Platforms in Gaming Disorder: Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal Findings

“…research has shown a positive relationship between GD and procrastination 60,61 which is characterized as "self-regulatory failure of not exerting self-control necessary for task engagement" (p. 116). 62 Here, difficulties for individuals implementing self-control of their behavior (see initiative and persistence self-control dimension) combined with individuals having difficulties in maintaining information about the goals of their actions (see goal maintenance self-control dimension) can both make it easier for gamers to begin a gaming session and harder to end a gaming session.…”