Media Technology Usage and Health: The Role of Athlete Identity and Achievement Goals

Abstract

This study investigates the sequential mediation effects of athlete identity, athletic achievement goals, and media technology use on health among university students. Utilizing path analysis on data collected from 333 participants via an online survey, the findings reveal significant paths between athlete identity and both mastery and performance goals. These goals influence media usage, with mastery goals linked to lower internet and social media use, and performance goals associated with higher engagement across various platforms. Media usage, in turn, impacts health and eating behaviors, with significant associations found between internet use and lower depression, computer use and higher depression and lower self-esteem, and online friendships fostering better overall health and healthy eating. These insights highlight the intricate dynamics between personal identity, motivational goals, and digital behavior, offering implications for targeted interventions to promote healthier lifestyles among athletes and the general student population.