Modeling the Use of Social Networks and Sleep Disturbance with the Mediating Role of Internet Addiction in Adolescents

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to examine the mediating role of internet addiction in the relationship between social network usage and sleep disturbance among adolescents.

Methods and Materials: A descriptive correlational design was used with a sample of 410 adolescents from Tehran, selected based on the Morgan and Krejcie table through stratified random sampling. Standardized instruments were used to measure Social Network Usage (SMUIS), Internet Addiction (IAT), and Sleep Disturbance (PSQI). Data were analyzed using SPSS-27 for descriptive and correlational statistics and AMOS-21 for Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Pearson correlation coefficients assessed relationships between variables, and SEM tested the mediation model with fit indices evaluated using established thresholds.

Findings: Results showed that Social Network Usage was significantly correlated with both Internet Addiction (r = .59, p < .001) and Sleep Disturbance (r = .47, p < .001). Internet Addiction also showed a strong positive correlation with Sleep Disturbance (r = .62, p < .001). The SEM analysis revealed good model fit (χ²/df = 1.96, GFI = 0.94, CFI = 0.96, RMSEA = 0.048). Social Network Usage had a significant direct effect on Sleep Disturbance (β = .21, p < .001) and an indirect effect through Internet Addiction (β = .32, p < .001), confirming a partial mediation. The total effect of Social Network Usage on Sleep Disturbance was substantial (β = .53, p < .001).

Conclusion: Internet addiction plays a significant mediating role in the relationship between social network usage and sleep disturbance among adolescents. Interventions targeting healthy digital habits may be critical for improving sleep quality and reducing internet dependency in youth populations.