The Relationship Between Internet Usage Style and Internet Addiction and Food Addiction in Obese Children Compared to Healthy Children

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The frequency of using the internet and social media increases in childhood, which leads to a decrease in physical activity. We aimed to investigate the effects of such technological applications on the internet and food addiction in obese and nonobese children. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 180 obese and 180 nonobese children were included in this study. Turkish version of the Parent-Child Internet Addiction Scale and Dimensional Yale Food Addiction Scale Version 2.0 for Children were applied. RESULTS: The frequency of internet addiction in the sample was 1.7%. The mean internet addiction scores of males were found to be significantly higher than females (34.9 ± 20.6, 26 ± 17.2; P < .001). Children, who used the internet for information and homework had significantly lower internet addiction scores and food addiction scores, respectively (P = .002, P = .009). Watching movies, TV series, or sports events (P < .001, P = .009); following food recipes, campaigns, or advertisements (P = .04, P < .001); and eating snacks in front of the screen (P < .001, P < .001) were found to cause higher internet addiction scores and food addiction scores. It was observed that body mass index showed a positive and significant correlation with internet addiction scores and food addiction scores. CONCLUSIONS: Internet addiction and social media applications were found to be significantly related. Considering the relationship between body mass index and addiction, the effect of internet usage style and internet addiction and food addiction on obesity is striking.