Emerging Adults in a Digitalized World: Influence of Gender on the Domains of Problematic Internet Use

Abstract

Numerous researchers have investigated the importance of exploring the factors associated with issues of problematic Internet use among emerging adults. This study aimed to explore the interaction between problematic Internet use and gender differences within the domains of problematic Internet use, namely obsession, neglect, and control disorder. Problematic Internet use was assessed using the Problematic Internet Use Questionnaire (PIUQ). 386 emerging adults from University of Lagos(50.5% males and 49.5% females) were purposively selected to participate in a survey. Prevalence of problematic Internet use was found to be 80.8%, and females (51.9%) demonstrated higher problematic Internet use compared to males (48.1%), [t(384) = -2.142, p < .05]. On the domains, however, multivariate regression analyses revealed gender differences within domains of problematic Internet use: females displayed a higher level of obsession [F(1, 384) = 3.864, p = .050, R2 = .010] compared to males, and were more likely to struggle with controlling Internet use [F(1, 384) = 7.719, p < .05, R2 = .020]. The findings from this study suggest a persistent rise in problematic Internet use among emerging adults. Preliminary evidence highlights the effectiveness and efficacy of gender-specific intervention strategies in addressing Internet addiction. Furthermore, the study recommended advocacy efforts and evidence-based parenting techniques that encourage alternative offline engagements. These interventions aim to minimise adolescents’ screen time while promoting positive attributes such as self-control and self-esteem, which research has shown to be helpful in preventing problematic Internet use. Lastly, the research will add to the existing knowledge on gender and internet use. Keywords: Gender, Problematic Internet Use, Neglect, Obsession, Control Disorder