Prevalence of internet addiction and its impact on selected psychological parameters among UG nursing students

BACKGROUND: Currently, the use of the internet is one of the most important tools, which may lead to negative or positive impact on college or school students. The excessive use of electronic media may lead to change in the mood, an inability to resist internet usage, a diminishing social life, withdrawal symptoms while unengaged, affecting self-esteem, and adverse work or academic consequences. The main objective of this study is to explore Internet use and its impact on selected psychological parameters such as depression and insomnia among undergraduate (UG) nursing students. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 385 college students selected by purposive sampling technique were included in the study. Young's Internet Addiction Test (YIAT20) for Internet addiction (IA) assessment, and Beck's depression inventory Scale to assess level of depression, and insomnia severity index (ISI) scale to measure insomnia were used. RESULTS: Among 385 participants, 175 and 210 were male and female, respectively. Demographic variables such as pursuing course, study year, use of Internet/day; and the purpose of Internet use such as social networking, games, entertainment, pornography, and news were significantly associated with IA. Depression and insomnia were found to be correlated with IA. CONCLUSION: Internet usage more than the normal limit has a profound effect on college or school students, in particular, depression and insomnia. At times, it ends up in problems in their social and family relationship.