Purposes, Causes and Consequences of Excessive Internet Use among Turkish Adolescents

Abstract

Problem Statement :Excessive internet use,particularly problematic and negative consequences of internet use, is rapidly increasing among children and adolescentsthroughout the World and in Turkey. While the internet provides potential advantages for users in terms of the academic support, sharing ideas & feelings, and freedom of expression, it also has some adverse effects such as wasting time, exhibiting antisocial behaviors, and causing relationship problems. Excessive use could also be manifested as absenteeism, academic failure and problems in interpersonal relationships with other students. In this context, determining the motivations behind the excessive use of the internet could be beneficial in an educational setting. Purpose of the Study : The purpose of this study is to determine the aims, causes and consequences of excessive internet use among adolescents and examine the aims of excessive internet use in terms of gender and grade level. Method : In this study, a quantitative method was used as the research design. As the research aims require in-depth opinions, data triangulation was also used. The study group consisted of 91 high school students who use the internet excessively. The study group were selected by screening1,587 students living in the Istanbul province during the 2012–2013 academic year who were internet users for “41 hours or more a week.” Data was collected by the Internet Use Purposes Scale (IPUS) and a semi-structured questionnaire. Findings : The purposes of excessive internet use among these adolescents weresocialization, learning and general culture, meeting psychological needs, entertainment, and education. There are a significant differences between the opinions of the adolescents in the entertainment and learning g excessive use causes multifaceted adverse effects on adolescents, including social, physical, academic, psychological and mental problems. In this context, meaning of “knowledge” and “socialization” for the adolescents should be researched by the academia. Programmes should be designed to meet the students’ learning and psycho-social developmental needs at schools and in real life. Artistic, sports and cultural activities must be increased in real life and school settings.  Keywords : Internet addiction, adolescent, guidance and psychological counseling, school psychology