Problematic Internet Use and Psychological Problems (Depression and Loneliness) Among Tanta University Students.

Abstract

In the last few years, Problematic Internet Use has become a serious mental health problem, particularly among the young people between ten and twenty-six years old. The earliest and recent studies reported link between overuse of the internet by adolescent and young adults and negative effect of psychological wellbeing. Aim of the study: This study aimed to investigate the extent of Problematic Internet usage among Tanta university students and examine the relationships between Problematic Internet Use and depression and loneliness among Tanta university students. Design: The study followed the descriptive design. Setting:- Different faculties of Tanta University. Subject: The target population of this study consisted of 300 participants who were chosen randomly among Tanta university students. Tools: In the collection of data of this study, Internet Addiction test (IAT), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI)and UCLA loneliness scale have been used. Result: Findings have demonstrated that about one third of the participants can be characterized as '' Problematic Internet Use. Additionally, there is positive significant relationship among Problematic Internet Use and depression and loneliness in which the studied university students who have a higher frequency of Internet usage are more likely to be lonely and depressed. Recommendation: The study recommended that it should be given more attention to educate students about internet usage habits and psychologists must be aware of this newly emerging disorder as a internet addiction and they should be able to apply the appropriate therapeutic interventions .