Social networking sites addiction and associated psychological problems among young adults: a study from North India

Abstract

Background The world is ever changing due to advancements in the realms of science and technology, with one such advancement being in the field of social networking. The ubiquity of social networking sites (SNSs) raises the concern for its problematic use among young adults and its relationship with mental health problems. Objectives The aim of the study was to explore the prevalence of social networking sites addiction and associated psychological problems in young adults. Methods Across-sectional descriptive study involving 200 medical students of Jawahar Lal Nehru Medical College, Ajmer was conducted to assess SNS addiction with a semi-structured proforma. The Depression Anxiety Stress scale-21 (DASS-21) and General Health Questionnaire-12 (GHQ-12) were used to assess participant’s psychosocial status. Results Out of 197 participants who completed the questionnaires 83 students (42.1%) were mildly effected, while 108 (54.8%) and 6 (3%) students were moderately and severely addicted to SNSs. Those with excessive SNSs use had higher rates of depression, anxiety and stress scores. Conclusion The findings of this study indicate that excessive SNSs use among students is associated with increased psychological symptoms, including symptoms of stress and anxiety. Further research is needed to explore these associations further. The Sri Lanka Journal of Psychiatry Vol 6(1):14-16