Emotional Intelligence and Physical Activity as Protective Factors Against Problematic Internet Use and Psychological Distress: A Comparative Study of Adolescents and Adults
M. Theodoratou, G. Galani, K. Megari, K. Flora, E. Mantsos, D. KatsarouIntroduction
Problematic Internet Use (PIU) is an increasing mental health concern, particularly among adolescents, and is associated with anxiety, depression, and impaired functioning. Emotional intelligence (EI) may serve as a protective factor, while physical activity (PA) supports psychological well-being. This study examined the relationships among PIU, psychological distress, EI, and PA across adolescents and adults.
Objectives
This study aimed to (1) investigate associations among PIU, psychological distress, EI, and PA, and (2) compare patterns of vulnerability and protective factors between adolescents and adults.
Methods
A cross-sectional design was employed. Standardized self-report instruments were used: Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K6) for psychological distress, Quality of Life Scale (QOLS) for well-being, Internet Addiction Test (IAT) by Young for PIU, Rapid Assessment of Physical Activity (RAPA) for PA, and an Emotional Intelligence Scale for EI. Descriptive statistics, correlation analyses, and group comparisons were conducted.
Results
Among adolescents, 65% engaged in at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity five times per week , and 67% reported vigorous activity at least three times weekly , reflecting relatively high PA levels. However, 72% displayed moderate PIU tendencies , with frequent loss of control over online time and emotional reliance on internet use. Distress levels were elevated: over 60% reported frequent sadness, hopelessness, or insignificance , with 38% scoring in ranges indicating risk for functional impairment. EI scores were low to moderate, particularly in recognizing others’ emotions (mean = 1.95/5).
Adults reported 53% meeting PA guidelines but lower engagement in vigorous exercise. 58% displayed moderate PIU , particularly difficulty disconnecting and using the internet to escape negative emotions. Psychological distress remained moderate to high, with 45% frequently reporting sadness or worry . EI scores were slightly higher than in adolescents (mean total = 12.65/25), yet still indicated gaps in stress regulation and empathy.
Correlational analyses revealed:
PIU was positively associated with psychological distress
(r ≈ 0.45, p < .01).
EI was inversely correlated with both distress (r ≈ -0.40) and PIU (r ≈ -0.38, p < .01)
, indicating its protective role.
PA was negatively correlated with distress (r ≈ -0.30) and PIU (r ≈ -0.25, p < .05)
, supporting its moderating function.
Adolescents showed stronger associations between low EI, high distress, and PIU compared to adults, highlighting developmental vulnerability.
Conclusions
PIU is linked to higher distress and lower EI, particularly in adolescents. PA emerged as a protective factor. Interventions promoting EI and regular PA may reduce maladaptive internet use and improve mental health outcomes.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared