Psychological determinants and coping mechanisms associated with internet addiction disorder among university...

Internet addiction disorder (IAD) has emerged as a significant concern among university students, fueled by academic pressures and increased internet accessibility.

This study aimed to assess the prevalence and determinants of IAD, focusing on the roles of socio-demographic factors, sleep quality, psychological distress, cognitive styles, and coping strategies.

A cross-sectional online survey was conducted during January-April 2024 among 386 undergraduate students (aged 17-23 years) from medical, engineering, and allied sciences at a selected university in India. Data were collected using validated tools: Young's Internet Addiction Test (IAT), DASS-21, Rumination-Reflection Questionnaire, Brief COPE, and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Statistical analyses included Chi-square tests, logistic regression, structural equation modelling, and latent profile analysis.

The prevalence of IAD was 68.9%, with mild, moderate, and severe cases accounting for 66.5%, 32.3%, 1.1%, respectively. Male gender, physical inactivity, prolonged sleep latency (>30 min), and daytime dysfunction were significantly associated with higher odds of IAD. Stress and anxiety had significant direct effects on IAD, with rumination mediating and reflection protecting against addiction. Problem-focused coping reduced, while avoidant and emotion-focused coping strategies moderated the impact of psychological distress. Latent profile analysis identified subgroups with varying psychological distress and coping styles, with the highest-risk profile exhibiting greater IAD severity.

IAD is highly prevalent among university students and is closely linked to psychological distress, maladaptive cognitive styles, and poor coping mechanisms. Targeted interventions addressing stress, promoting adaptive cognition, and fostering healthy coping strategies are essential to mitigate IAD risk in this population.