Internet addiction and psychological strain in nursing and midwifery students

Abstract

Background: Despite the beneficial effects of the internet, inappropriate, and overuse of it may result in negative consequences such as internet addiction (IA). Despite the increasing uses of the internet among students and the concern about IA, the mechanism and the direction of association between IA and psychological stain is still unknown. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the correlation between IA and psychological strain in nursing and midwifery students of Islamic Azad University, Qom Branch, in 2018. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out on 298 nursing and midwifery students of Islamic Azad University, Qom Branch. The students were recruited through a census method and responded to a three-part instrument. The study instrument included questions addressing the students' characteristics, the Young's IA Test, and the Osipow Psychological Strain Inventory. Data analysis was performed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The mean age of the students was 21.93 ± 2.91 years. The mean IA and psychological strain were 53.12 ± 16.66 and 25.22 ± 7.33, respectively. About 50% of the students were moderately addicted to the internet, and 53% of the students showed moderate psychological strain. A direct significant correlation was found between IA and psychological strain in nursing and midwifery students (P = 0.001 and r = 0.41). IA and students' age could predict psychological strain in nursing and midwifery students (r2 = 0.18). Conclusion: A majority of nursing and midwifery students showed moderate levels of IA and psychological strain, and these two variables are significantly correlated. The authorities in nursing and midwifery education should establish appropriate strategies to diminish the harmful effects of excessive internet use by the students.