Internet Addiction: An Analysis of Technical and Non-technical Undergraduate Students

Abstract

The rapid expansion of internet usage particularly among students has been observed. It facilitated their academic and non-academic engagement. But it has also led to concerns about internet addiction. The study aims to assess internet addiction levels, compare addiction between male and female students across disciplines, and explore key influencing factors. A total of 207 undergraduate students from a central university in Uttar Pradesh, participated in an online survey using a self-developed Internet Addiction Scale (IAS). The reliability coefficient of IAS is 0.854, indicating a high reliability. Findings reveal significant variations in internet addiction based on gender and academic stream, with technical students exhibiting higher addiction levels. The factors include gender, age and hours spent online significantly influence the internet addiction. The study highlights the growing public health implications of internet addiction, linking it to anxiety, depression and social isolation. While previous research presents mixed findings, this study underscores the need for targeted interventions, particularly in higher education institutions. The results call for awareness programs and strategies to promote responsible internet use among students.