The Role of Family Communication Patterns and Internet Addiction in Trait Anxiety among Generation Z

Abstract

The current study examined the role of Family Communication Patterns (Conversation and Conformity Orientation) and Internet Addiction in Trait Anxiety among adolescents. A sample of 406 adolescents (202 boys, 204 girls; aged 14–18 years) from urban Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, were assessed using the Revised Family Communication Patterns Instrument (Koerner & Fitzpatrick, 1990), Internet Addiction Scale (Young, 1998), and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (Spielberger et al., 1964). Data were analysed using t-tests, correlation, and stepwise regression.

Findings revealed significant gender differences in Conversation Orientation whereas no significant gender differences were found in Conformity Orientation, Internet Addiction and Trait Anxiety among adolescents. The results also found significant negative correlation between Family communication patterns (conversation and conformity orientation) and Trait Anxiety among adolescents. Furthermore, Conversation Orientation significantly predicted Trait Anxiety among both genders, while Internet Addiction had a significant negative correlation with Trait Anxiety only among boys and predicted Trait Anxiety for boys. These variables exerted a negative influence on Trait Anxiety. The findings emphasise the importance of open family communication and suggest moderated internet use may reduce trait anxiety, especially among boys.