<p>Previous research has explored the connection between parent-child cohesion and problematic internet use (PIU). However, there is still a need to further examine the underlying mediation mechanism that operate between them among early adolescents, particularly from a developmental perspective. The present study aimed to investigate the longitudinal effect of parent-child cohesion on PIU, and to explore the chain mediating roles of psychological suzhi and depression, as well as to examine gender differences among adolescents. A total of 807 early adolescents (46.8% boys; <i>M</i>_<i>age</i> = 13.05; <i>SD</i> = 0.96) in Chongqing, China were recruited for this study. From September 2022 to April 2024, they completed self-reported questionnaires at three different time points. The results showed that parent-child cohesion at T1 significantly negatively predicted PIU at T3. Psychological suzhi and depression at T2 served as chain mediators between parent-child cohesion at T1 and PIU at T3. Additionally, significant gender differences in the chain mediation model were observed. Our findings offered important insights into the underlying mechanism that link parent-child cohesion and PIU throughout development, and emphasized a need to develop appropriate interventions targeting psychological suzhi and depression among early adolescents.</p>