Health-Related Internet Use and Cyberchondria in Adolescents: Population-Based Cross-Sectional Survey

The results suggest that health-related internet research and cyberchondria seem to be as relevant in adolescence as they are in adulthood, with similar associations to psychological traits and symptoms. The findings particularly support theoretical models that emphasize the role of intolerance of uncertainty and health anxiety. From a practical perspective, recognizing cyberchondria in adolescence could inform early prevention and psychoeducational strategies, especially given the high prevalence of health-related information seeking on the internet among adolescents. Further longitudinal research is needed to clarify causal pathways and to evaluate possible intervention approaches.