Tiempo de conexión a internet y conductas de riesgo online en jóvenes de España y Argentina

Aylin Alba Mandak Arjona; Gianluigi Moscato; Irene Soledad Estrada Moreno; Luis Gómez Jacinto

doi:10.65598/rps.6048

Authors

Aylin Alba Mandak Arjona Universidad de Málaga
Gianluigi Moscato
Irene Soledad Estrada Moreno
Luis Gómez Jacinto

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.65598/rps.6048

Keywords:

Internet, Time spent online, Online risk behaviors, Young people, Digital vulnerability

Abstract

Intensive internet use has become a structural component of young people’s lives, increasing their exposure to various online risk behaviors. This study examined the relationship between daily internet use and five types of digital risks (risk content exposure, relational risk, cyber scams, indirect risks, and participation in viral challenges) considering the influence of sex, age, and cultural differences between Spain and Argentina. The sample comprised 466 young adults (244 Argentinians and 222 Spaniards) aged 18 to 30, primarily students and frequent users of social media, particularly Instagram and TikTok.

A cross-sectional, correlational design was employed using validated online questionnaires. Multiple regression analyses with moderation models were conducted to examine the interactive effects of sex and age on the relationship between internet use and digital risks.

In Spain, the association between time online and exposure to risk content and viral challenges was moderated by sex and age, while relational risks were more pronounced among women of intermediate age. For cyber scams and indirect risks, sex and age exerted greater influence than hours of internet use. In Argentina, higher internet use was associated with increased exposure to risk content and indirect risks, particularly among younger males, whereas engagement in viral challenges was influenced by the interaction of age and sex. In both countries, risk patterns varied according to sociodemographic and cultural factors, highlighting the need for differentiated prevention strategies tailored to the specific characteristics of each youth population.

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