The Bulletin of National Defence University of Ukraine

The situation associated with the rapid spread of Internet addiction is a significant problem for many countries, including Ukraine. In conditions of socio-economic crisis, individuals are exposed to various psychogenic factors, which leads them to seek alternative spheres of self-realization, one of which is the virtual reality created on the Internet. The aim of the study is to conduct a theoretical analysis and empirical investigation of the psychological factors underlying Internet addiction among university students. The methodological basis of this study includes a theoretical analysis of sources that define the essence of Internet addiction in youth. To identify uncontrolled Internet use and assess addiction symptoms, the Young’s Internet Addiction Test was administered. A situational questionnaire, "Your Leisure," was used to determine leisure activity patterns. The scientific novelty lies in identifying the psychological factors underlying Internet-dependent behavior. The main theoretical principles for defining Internet addiction are described. Psychological and physical factors characterizing individuals addicted to the Internet are highlighted, including: compulsive checking of email, constant anticipation of the next Internet connection, spending many hours online and significant money on Internet activities, and experiencing anxiety, aggression, or irritability when access is restricted. It was established that addictive behavior negatively affects students’ emotional state and socialization. The study also identified the basic prerequisites and main types of Internet addiction according to K. Young’s research. The range of needs that adolescents satisfy through Internet use and how they organize their leisure time were examined. It was found that the primary mechanism for the development of Internet addiction is the displacement of personal goals into virtual reality to compensate for missing life spheres. Based on the processing and interpretation of empirical data, four groups of respondents with different levels of Internet addiction were identified. The study confirmed an increase in the number of students classified as Internet-addicted, indicating that scientific and pedagogical efforts should focus on preventing this phenomenon among youth. The results of this study are important for further research aimed at a detailed analysis of Internet addiction among young people and for outlining directions for preventive educational activities within student groups

References