The role of perception and ICT usage by parental figures in digital leisure engagement: a mediation analysis

Abstract

The presence of adolescent children in the household impacts parental involvement in digital leisure activities. However, some authors suggest that parents' beliefs and personal ICT usage may be more determining factors than the presence of teenagers. This study examines how parents' perception of digital leisure, their ICT usage, and their participation in leisure activities with their children affect their individual involvement in digital leisure activities, using a mediation analysis through Structural Equation Models (SEM). A total of 1200 Spanish parents participated (M = 46.61 years; age range: 28-69). The overall model revealed that joint participation in digital leisure activities within the family explains 58% of the variability in individual parental involvement, highlighting the relevance of family interaction in promoting digital skills and enhancing family relationships.