Analysing Components of Behavioural Addiction: A Study of Technology and Social Media Usage Among Indian Students

Abstract

The cross-sectional study explored behavioural addiction linked to technology and social media among Indian students. It involved responses from446 Indian students, investigating their technology and social media usage patterns, motivations, and psychological factors and assessing SMAS (Social Media Addiction Scale). It also examined the relationships between factors and addiction. The findings showed that female students exhibited higher moderate addiction levels than males, and those aged 18-22 were more prone to mildaddiction. Internet use was primarily driven by accessibility and communication needs. The models revealed that addiction status and behavioural addiction constructs were influenced by application and website usage, social media engagement, internet usage duration, and addiction severity. The SMASdistribution differed across genders and addiction statuses. The study discovered moderate social networking addiction among Indian students and its link to social media use. It offers insights for tailored interventions and preventive strategies against technology and social media addiction. Nevertheless, further research considering cultural factors is needed to develop culturally sensitive interventions for Indian students dealing with technology addiction.