TRIGGERS OF INTERNET ADDICTION AND CONTROL MECHANISMS AMONG UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS OF UNIVERSITY OF EDUCATION, WINNEBA

Journalism and Media Studies

The Internet’s penetration into daily life, rising to pathological Internet use with problems similar to those of other behavioural addictions is of great concern to an increasing number of people. University students are especially susceptible to developing a dependence on the Internet. This study through the lens of general strain theory, and a qualitative case study design critically examined triggers of Internet addiction and control mechanisms among 12 undergraduate students of university of Education, Winneba. From the study, it was evident that the Internet has become an integral part of student’s life. The numerous potential benefits of Internet usage notwithstanding, undergraduate students are at high risk of developing Internet addiction. The study found themes such as anxiety, depression, curiosity, boredom, loneliness and academic research as triggers of Internet addiction among students. The study also revealed themes such as self-restraint, awareness creation, administrative restrictions and purposefulness as control mechanisms to evade Internet addiction. It was discovered that in spite of the fact that the Internet helps students positively in many ways, it also impacts them negatively. The study revealed that, it is important to investigate the intensity of Internet addiction among university students. The study concluded that Internet addiction is a vital issue to be attended to immediately. The study recommended to health care professionals and educational counsellors to interact with students on the positive use of the Internet. Also, university counselling centres should create platform where students will be educated on the control mechanisms of Internet addiction such as exercising self-restraint and being purposeful while online.

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