Researchers have found a strong association between computer and Internet use in adolescents and engagement in multiple-risk behaviours (MRB). "This research is based on social cognitive theory, which suggests that seeing people engaged in behaviour is a way of learning that behaviour," explains lead researcher Valerie Carson, a doctoral candidate in School of Kinesiology and Health Studies, Health news reported.
"Since adolescents are exposed to considerable screen time over 4.5 hours on average each day they're constantly seeing images of behaviours they can then potentially adopt." The researchers found that high computer use was associated with approximately 50 per cent increased engagement with MRB, including smoking, non-use of seatbelts and illicit drug use.
High television use was also associated with a modestly increased engagement in these MRB. In addition, computer usage by adolescents has increased considerably in recent years. "Parents can make use of programs that control access to the Internet, but adolescents in this age group are quite savvy about technology and the Internet. It's possible that these types of controls are not effective in blocking all undesirable websites."
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