Internet Addiction a Global Concern: A Cross-Sectional Appraisal amongst Imminent Medical Doctors of National Defence University of Malaysia

Abstract

Background: Recent evolution in terms of technology and availability of the internet has brought several innovations that made work and access to information straightforward. Nonetheless, the danger of pathological internet addiction and its adverse consequences are frightening. Objectives: The primary goal of this research is to determine the level of internet addiction among undergraduate medical students at National Defence University, Malaysia. Methods: A structured questionnaire comprising of section A consisting of student demographic information and section B made up of Dr. Kimberly Young's 20 items internet addiction test (IAT) in 5-point Likert's scale. Internet addiction scores were classified based on Young's scale. Results: The response rate obtained from this study was 89.6%. Out of the 224 respondents, only 4 (1.8%) were found to be regular internet users, 98 (43.8%) were established to be mild addicts, 110 (49.1%) were moderate addicts and finally, 12 (5.4%) were severe internet addicts. There was a statistically significant difference in the mean internet addiction score between males and females, with males having higher ratings. Conclusion: The prevalence of internet addiction among undergraduate medical students is high and needs to be controlled. As such, the use of the internet at colleges and universities may need to be regulated.

Internet Use and Its Addiction Among Medical Students in Hyderabad, Pakistan

“…These findings are consistent with the findings of earlier studies that reported a similar pattern. (1,14,15) Lastly, it has been found that students residing in the hostel had the highest mean internet addiction score compared with day scholars. These findings are consistent with the findings of Qadir et al (23) This can also be explained as students residing in hostels, being alone, get bored and spend longer duration using the internet for change of mind.…”

“…The world has transformed over recent years in the field of technology while the availability of the internet is one of the major contributory factors to this milestone. (1) The number of people using the internet worldwide is growing exponentially; the current report indicated that more than 4 billion people are using the internet globally. As such, over half of the world's population is now online, with about a quarter of a billion new users recorded for the first time in 2017.…”

“…As such, over half of the world's population is now online, with about a quarter of a billion new users recorded for the first time in 2017. (1) An increased consumer demand has led to ORIGINAL ARTICLE competition among the electronic suppliers leading to a fall in the prices of desktop computers, laptops, pads, and mobile phones. (2) Subsequently of these advancements, the use of the internet has skyrocketed; not only as means of communication but also as a vital tool for information in the quest for knowledge and as a medium for marketing.…”