Mobile Phone Dependence, Self-Control, and Baduanjin Qigong Exercise among Sub-healthy Adolescents: A Latent Profile Analysis

Background: This study aims to explore the latent categories of mobile phone dependence and self-control among sub-healthy urban adolescents and their association with Baduanjin practice. The findings seek to provide an empirical basis for preventing mobile phone addiction, enhancing self-control, and improving the sub-health status of urban youth.

Methods: Using a multi-stage cluster sampling method, 513 sub-healthy urban adolescents with regular Baduanjin exercise habits in Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, were surveyed between September and October 2025. Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) was employed to identify subgroups of mobile phone dependence and self-control. Pearson correlation was used to examine the relationship between the two primary variables, while Chi-square tests analyzed demographic variations across the identified profiles. Finally, multivariate logistic regression was performed to evaluate the associations between these latent profiles and Baduanjin practice frequency.

Results: Four distinct latent profiles were identified: Low Dependence-Moderate Control (n=116, 22.6%), Moderate Dependence-Low Control (n=198, 38.6%), High Dependence-No Control (n=150, 29.2%), and No Dependence-High Control (n=49, 9.6%). Significant differences in profile distribution were observed across gender, age, ethnicity, household income, and academic achievement (P < 0.05). After controlling for demographic variables, logistic regression (using Low Dependence-Moderate Control as the reference) showed that Baduanjin exercise was negatively associated with the Moderate Dependence-Low Control (OR = 1.932) and High Dependence-No Control (OR = 1.709) groups, while showing a strong positive association with the No Dependence-High Control group (OR = 109.721, P < 0.01).

Conclusions: The impact of Baduanjin exercise varies across different latent profiles of mobile phone dependence and self-control in sub-healthy urban adolescents. Tailored Baduanjin intervention programs should be developed for different adolescent subgroups to effectively promote their physical and mental well-being.