Examining the relationship between digital parenting self-efficacy and digital parenting awareness of early adolescents' parents

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the variables that affect early adolescents' parents' digital self-efficacy and digital parenting awareness. Design and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between May and June 2022, with a sample of 2402 parents. Data were collected using a Parent Information Form, Digital Parenting Awareness Scale, and Digital Parenting Self-Efficacy Scale. The data were analysed using independent t-tests, Pearson correlations, and one-way ANOVA analysis. Results: All parents have internet access at home and on their phones, and they all use the internet. The average daily internet usage time is 4.48 +/- 2.09 h. A positive correlation was found between the average scores of parents' digital literacy (r = -0.111; p < 0.001) and digital communication (r = 0.089; p < 0.001). It was determined that the average digital communication subscale score of parents with a primary school degree was higher than that of parents with a university degree or higher (F = 2.783, p = 0.040). It was found that there was no statistical correlation between the amount of time parents spend on the internet daily and their total score and subscale scores of digital self-efficacy (p > 0.05). Conclusion: This study's results demonstrate that parents are proficient in digital security, digital literacy, and digital communication. Additionally, there is a significant correlation between digital literacy, digital communication, and digital parenting awareness. Practice implications: The study results could guide the development of future interventions to enhance parents' awareness and competence in digital safety and the use of digital tools.