| Summary: | Purpose: To examine associations between internet use behaviors, network information literacy, and trust in doctors across age groups, and to test the mediating role of subjective well-being (SWB). Method: Multiple linear regression was used to test associations between internet use behaviors, network information literacy, and trust in doctors. The mediation effect of SWB was tested with the Karlson–Holm–Breen method. Results: Internet use, particularly via mobile devices, decreased trust in doctors among older adults (coef. = −0.272, p = 0.003) and increased trust among young adults (coef. = 0.122, p = 0.011). However, among mobile device users, improved network information literacy significantly enhanced trust in doctors for both age groups. Conclusion: Findings highlight age-specific mechanisms linking internet use to trust in doctors, emphasizing the mediating role of SWB and protective effect of network information literacy.
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