Prevalence of internet addiction, its association with psychological distress, coping strategies among undergraduate students (2019)

Nurse Educ Today. 2019 Jul 12;81:78-82. doi: 10.1016/j.nedt.2019.07.004.

Hasan AA1, Jaber AA2.

Abstract

PURPOSE:

This study aimed to describe the prevalence of Internet addiction (IA) among undergraduate students, and its impact on psychological distress and coping strategies.

METHODS:

Data were collected using a convenience sample of 163 student nurses.

FINDINGS:

The results showed that there was high prevalence rate of IA among students. In addition, the use of avoidance and problem-solving coping mechanism was statistically significant among the IA group compared with the non-IA group (p < 0.05). This was associated with a more negative impact on psychological distress and self-efficacy (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS:

IA is an increasing problem in the general population and among university students. It can affect many aspects of a student’s life and performance.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS:

The results will raise awareness of the deleterious effects of IA on a wide range of student life.

KEYWORDS: Coping mechanism; Cross-sectional; Education; Perceived stress; Students; University

PMID: 31352247

DOI: 10.1016/j.nedt.2019.07.004