Latent Profile Analysis of Technophobia and Its Network Associations with Health Self-Care Behaviors among Older Adults in Rural China

Background This study aimed to identify heterogeneous latent profiles of technophobia among rural older adults and to explore the network structure linking technophobia and health self-care behaviors. Methods From August to October 2025, a total of 466 participants were recruited. Latent profile analysis was conducted using the Technophobia Scale, and the optimal model was determined based on fit indices and likelihood ratio tests. Network analysis was then employed to construct both overall and subgroup networks of technophobia and health self-care behaviors, identifying core and bridge symptoms. Network accuracy and stability were assessed through bootstrap procedures. Results Five subgroups were identified: “moderate tension–low fear,” “low tension–moderate fear,” “moderate tension–fear,” “high tension–moderate fear,” and “high tension–low fear.” Core symptoms were primarily distributed across three dimensions: health maintenance behavior, health belief formation behavior, and medical resource utilization behavior. Bridge symptoms varied across subgroups: HBB1 ( media health information ) in the “moderate tension–low fear” group; HBD7 ( acceptance ) in the “low tension–moderate fear” group; and HBB3 ( online health information ) in the “moderate tension– fear” group. Conclusions Technophobia among rural older adults exhibits distinct heterogeneity and forms specific network structures with health self-care behaviors. These findings provide a theoretical foundation for precision, stratified behavioral intervention strategies targeting diverse technophobia profiles in rural elderly populations. Trial registration Registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry on 10/30/2025(ChiCTR2500111399)