Problematic Internet Use and Psychological Problems among University Students with Disabilities.

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Disability Studies
• Digital Health

Background:

• Problematic internet use (PIU) is understudied in individuals with disabilities.
• Understanding PIU in this population is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate PIU among Spanish university students with disabilities.
• To examine the relationship between PIU, psychological problems, and discomfort.

Main Methods:

• Survey of 432 Spanish university students with disabilities.
• Assessed PIU using the Internet Addiction Test (IAT).
• Evaluated psychological issues with the Clinical Outcomes in Routine Evaluation-Outcome Measure (CORE-OM).

Main Results:

• PIU prevalence was 6.3%.
• Higher PIU rates were observed in students under 22 and those with congenital disabilities.
• Recreational internet use correlated with higher PIU.
• Problematic internet users reported significantly more psychological problems.

Conclusions:

• Younger students (under 22) with disabilities, particularly those with congenital conditions and primarily recreational internet use, are at higher risk for PIU.
• PIU is associated with increased psychological distress, including anxiety and social relationship difficulties.
• Intervention strategies should consider age, disability onset, and internet usage patterns.