Problematic internet use and online risk behaviors in adults from Latin America

This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of problematic internet use (PIU) and risky online behaviors (sexting, sextortion, cybervictimization, and pornography consumption) based on gender, age, and living arrangements, as well as to analyze their relationship. A total of 4,975 participants (62.3% women), aged 18 to 64 years (M= 32.23, SD= 12.92), from the Dominican Republic (52.4%), Ecuador (21.9%), Mexico (14.1%), Peru (7%), Colombia (2.5%), and Argentina (2.1%) took part in the study. PIU was reported by 30.1% of participants, being more frequent among young people aged 18–30 and those living with family. Young people also engaged more in risky online behaviors, especially those living with friends. Among individuals over 30, both PIU and risky online behaviors were less prevalent. An association between PIU and risky online behaviors was confirmed, albeit with a small effect size. These findings highlight the presence of PIU and risky online behaviors among adults in Latin America, suggesting that prevention policies should address both issues comprehensively.