Does loneliness, self‐esteem and psychological distress correlate with problematic internet use? A Bangladeshi survey study

• DOI: 10.1111/appy.12386
• Publication Date: 2020-04-03T15:22:10Z
• Authors: Mohammed A. Mamun; Md. Sharif Hossain; Mst. Sabrina Moon...; Mohammed Tanvir M...; Jannatul Mawa Misti; Mark D. Griffiths
• Keywords: Psychological Distress; UCLA Loneliness Scale

Abstract Background Researchers have claimed that problematic internet use (PIU) and addiction (IA) is a global mental health problem. However, little research has addressed this issue in Bangladesh no previous study examined the relationship between PIU potential psychological risk factors. Aim The present prevalence of its associated factors including socio‐demographic variables, behaviors, other variables loneliness, self‐esteem, distress. Methods A cross‐sectional was conducted among Bangladeshi students (N = 605). Measures included Internet Addiction Test (IAT), Rosenberg's Self‐Esteem Scale, UCLA Loneliness General Health Questionnaire. Results Using cut‐off score ≤60 (out 100) on IAT, 16.5% (n 100). Regression analysis showed sleep disturbance (more or less than 6‐7 hours sleeping time), not using for academic purposes, online chatting were PIU. distress positively correlated with PIU, whereas self‐esteem negatively correlated. Conclusions highlights university an concern targeted prevention needed emerging adults to help overcome potentially negative effects use.