Correlation between digital literacy, digital game addiction, and healthy lifestyle beliefs in adolescents: Structural equation model analysis

Abstract

Background: With the development of technology, digital game addiction has become a significant public health problem. With the increase in digital game addiction (DGA), there have been changes in healthy lifestyle habits (HLB). Digital literacy (DL) plays an important role in creating a routine for adolescents using digital technologies. This study aimed to evaluate the correlation between DL, DGA, and HLB of adolescent students. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study. This study was conducted with 938 secondary school students in three schools in one of the largest cities in Turkiye between May and June 2024. The study data were collected using a descriptive characteristics form, the DGA Scale for Children, the DL scale, and the HLB Scale for Adolescents. Results: The mean scores of the DGA, HLB, and DL scales were found to be 15.60 +/- 5.32, 59.81 +/- 11.71, and 72.36 +/- 14.49, respectively. Higher DL of the adolescents positively affected their DGA and the HLB. On the other hand, higher DGA of the adolescents caused a negative effect on their HLB. Conclusions: Promoting non-digital gaming activities and social responsibility projects in schools can support adolescents to adopt a healthier lifestyle by improving their time management skills. Furthermore, it is of great importance to raise awareness among parents about DL. School health and psychiatric nurses can direct adolescents to alternative sports and non-game activities state to minimize technology addiction.