A network analysis of physical activity, self-control, problematic social media use, and sleep disturbance in college students

In response to the global issue where approximately a quarter of the population suffers from sleep disorders, closely linked to insufficient physical activity, decreased self-control, and problematic social media use, this study explored the complex relationships among these variables in 501 participants using network analysis and a chain mediation model. The results revealed an overall network density of 0.48, with the strongest cross-domain connections being physical activity duration → self-discipline, impulse control → negative impact (PSMU6), and impulse control → daytime dysfunction. Negative impact (PSMU6) and craving (PSMU2) were identified as the nodes with the highest strength and EI centrality, respectively. Physical activity duration was the most important bridging node, while impulse control had the lowest bridging expected influence. The mediation analysis further indicated that self-control explained 46% of the association between physical activity and sleep disturbance, with the chain mediation path of self-control → social media addiction explaining 19.4% of the total association. The study suggests focusing on controlling the “craving” (PSMU2) and “negative impact” (PSMU6) of social media to prevent sleep disorders. Meanwhile, increasing exercise time may serve as a key leverage point for improvement, being associated with better sleep quality and fewer addictive behaviors. Additionally, strengthening impulse control is recommended to break the interplay between these unhealthy habits. Furthermore, it suggests comprehensively improving overall physical activity levels and self-control to cultivate a healthy lifestyle, thereby fully leveraging the positive effects of physical activity.