Problematic Internet Use Among University Students in Jamaica.

Abstract

The prevalence of problematic Internet use (PIU) and its associated negative outcomes among college students has been heavily researched in developed countries. However, despite the increased accessibility of the Internet and indicators which may suggest PIU in developing countries such as Jamaica, PIU in this context remains grossly understudied. This study surveyed 277 Jamaican university students and found evidence of PIU, with younger respondents (ages 18–23) at risk. The findings also indicate that the predictors of PIU in this sample are depressive symptomatology, avoidant-attachment, and low social connectedness (R2 = .208, F[7, 269] = 10.112, p < .001). Findings from the current study highlight that problematic Internet use is of concern in this developing context and warrants further exploration.