Developing a structural model of the relationship between sensation seeking and adolescent internet addiction: the mediating role of self-empowerment

Introduction: The increasing demand for computer technology and the widespread influence of the internet has left many people, particularly students, with mental disorders and problems in social connections caused by computer addition. Aim: The present study aimed to investigate the mediating role of self-empowerment in the relationship between sensation seeking and adolescent internet addiction. Method: This descriptive study has used structural modeling. The study's statistical population included all high school students in Karaj in 2018-2019, from whom 310 students were selected by purposive sampling and completed the Arndt Inventory of Sensation Seeking (AISS), Young Internet Addiction Test, and Psychosocial Inventory of Ego Strength (PIES). The collected data were analyzed by Pearson correlation and Sobel test using SPSS23 and AMOS23. Results: According to the results, the direct effect of sensation seeking and self-empowerment on the students internet addiction was significant at a 95% confidence level (p<0.05). The results also indicated an indirect relationship between sensation seeking and the students internet addiction mediated by their self-empowerment at a 95% confidence level (p<0.05). In general, the results of the models showed a good fit for all research scales. Conclusion: In conclusion, paying attention to the enhancement of individuals belief in their ego strength can reduce the likelihood of high-risk behaviors and consequently prevent the adverse effects of adolescent internet addiction through psychological well-being. Therefore, it is necessary to consider the role of sensation seeking and self-empowerment to prevent internet addiction.