An era of digital slavery: a study on internet addiction among professional college students of Hassan, Karnataka

Abstract

Background: The spectacular growth of technology has made Internet use, the most popular recreational and academic activity for the college students. With the rise of new-generation gadgets, the risk of “internet addiction” is a significant issue of concern. Internet addiction leads to social and psychological problems such as depression, loneliness, low self-esteem and life satisfaction and other mental health problems and a greater impact on their academics. The objective of the study was to determine the association between internet addiction and depression and to know the effect of gender on internet addiction.Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out on the professional course students from Hassan Institute of Medical Sciences (Government Medical College) and Government Engineering College. A total of 300 students were assessed for internet addiction using Young’s internet addiction test and depression was assessed using Beck’s depression inventory-II.Results: Out of the 300 professional college students, 173 (57.7%) were found to be internet addicted and 67 (38.7%) among them were found to be depressed and a statistically significant association (p<0.05, OR 3.6, 95% CI 2.02–6.39) was found. Males were found to be more addicted than females and it was statistical significant.Conclusions: Internet Addiction is common among the college students and adequate steps have to be taken to prevent the students from falling into addiction which is considered as a mental health issue. Knowledge regarding the safe use of internet has to be provided to students.