Relationship between internet addiction and behavioural problems Among adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Study in selected Schools of Bengaluru, India

Abstract

Background With the rapid development of digital technologies and the increasing access to the Internet, Internet addiction has become a serious public health problem among adolescents. Excessive internet use  has been associated with a variety of psychological, emotional, behavioural and academic problems. Adolescent behavioural problems can have negative effects on social relationships, academic achievement and general well-being. Understanding the relationship between internet addiction and behavioural problems is essential for developing effective preventive and intervention strategies. Aim To assess the relationship between internet addiction and behavioural problems among adolescents in selected schools of Bengaluru. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 300 adolescents studying in selected schools of Bengaluru using a non-probability convenience sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured sociodemographic questionnaire, Young's Internet Addiction Test (IAT), and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data. Spearman's rank correlation coefficient was applied to determine the relationship between internet addiction and behavioural problems. Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests were used to assess the association between study variables and selected sociodemographic characteristics. Results Among the 300 participants, 33.7% had mild internet addiction, 32.3% had moderate internet addiction, 32.3% had normal internet use, and 1.7% had severe internet addiction. As for behavioural problems, 67.0% of the adolescents were in the normal range, 19.3% were at risk and 13.7% had clinically significant behavioural problems. There was a statistically significant weak positive correlation between internet addiction and behavioural problems (Spearman's rho = 0.22, p = 0.01). Significant association was found between internet addiction and variables like class, daily duration of internet use, academic performance and frequently used internet platform. Significant associations were found between class, daily use of internet, family income and frequently used internet platform with behavioural problems. Conclusion The study demonstrated a significant positive relationship between internet addiction and behavioural problems among adolescents. Although the association was weak, excessive internet use was linked with increased behavioural difficulties. School-based mental health interventions, early screening, parental guidance, and behavioural interventions may help reduce problematic internet use and improve adolescents' psychological well-being.