Gender Differences in the Co-Occurrence Networks of Problematic Social Media Use and Depressive Symptoms in Adolescents: A Cross-Lagged Panel Network Analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Problematic social media use (PSMU) is a growing concern among adolescents, particularly among girls, and often co-occurs with depressive symptoms. This co-occurrence can worsen symptom severity and impair functioning. Early identification and gender-specific interventions are crucial. This study aimed to explore the interaction between PSMU and depressive symptoms and identify gender differences in Chinese adolescents. METHODS: A sample of 1068 Chinese adolescents (Mage = 14.28; 52.8% girls) completed self-reported questionnaires on PSMU and depressive symptoms. Cross-lagged panel network (CLPN) analysis was used to examine the reciprocal relationships between PSMU and depressive symptoms and to identify gender-specific patterns. RESULTS: In the overall co-occurrence network, the three strongest cross-lagged paths were guilt → suicidal ideation (β = 0.13), concentration difficulties → relapse (β = 0.13), and suicidal ideation → sad mood (β = 0.12). "Suicidal ideation" and "guilt" showed the strongest connectivity, while "mood modification" and "low energy" were most influenced by other symptoms. Concentration difficulties → relapse was the strongest cross-domain pathway, suggesting that these symptoms may form a candidate longitudinal bridge between depressive symptoms and PSMU. In the gender-stratified networks, guilt was the primary driving node and low energy the most strongly influenced node among girls; among boys, suicidal ideation and sleep problems occupied these roles, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that symptoms such as "guilt" and "suicidal ideation" may represent potential targets for future gender-sensitive prevention and intervention research. Tailored approaches based on symptom patterns can help reduce the impact of PSMU and depressive symptoms in adolescents.