Influence of internet and mobile dependence on subjective well-being and reading motivation in schoolchildren: The mediating role of family social support

In recent years, dependence on the internet and smartphones has become a significant concern for society. The aim of this study is to determine the mediating role of family social support in the relationship between internet and mobile dependence and subjective well-being and reading motivation in Peruvian schoolchildren. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 972 Peruvian schoolchildren of both genders, aged between 12 and 18 years (M = 14.17, SD = 1.36). Correlation analyses between study variables were performed using Spearman's Rho correlation coefficient. Additionally, a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted through structural equation modeling (SEM), and the Weighted Least Squares Mean and Variance adjusted (WLMS) estimation method was employed. The results showed that internet and mobile dependence has a direct effect on family social support. Furthermore, family social support is directly associated with subjective well-being. A positive relationship was also found between family social support and reading motivation. Moreover, it was observed that the effects of internet and mobile dependence on subjective well-being and reading motivation are moderated by family social support. This study supports the existing literature indicating that family social support serves as a mediator in the influence of internet and mobile phone dependency on the subjective well-being and reading motivation of Peruvian schoolchildren. • Analysis of the effect of internet and mobile phone dependence on subjective well-being. • Analysis of the effect of internet and mobile phone dependence on reading motivation. • The mediating role of family social support was examined. • Family social support mediates the effect of internet and mobile phone dependence on subjective well-being. • Family social support mediates the effect of internet and mobile phone dependence on reading motivation.