Modeling Quadratic Trajectories of Media Use in Adolescents: The Roles of Academic Performance and Mental Health Risks

Adolescent media use is a growing concern in developmental and educational research. Using data from the nationally representative Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study, 10,728 adolescents were followed across 4 waves. Latent growth curve modeling revealed a curvilinear trajectory of media engagement, with early increases followed by plateau or decline. Externalizing problems consistently predicted higher media use, while lower academic performance also emerged as a risk factor for media use. Internalizing problems showed weaker, time-specific associations, influencing media use only at certain points. These results highlighted the need to address both psychological vulnerabilities and educational contexts when examining adolescents’ media behavior, offering insights for interventions that balance technology use with mental health and academic support.