Internet Addiction as an Outcome of Fear of Missing Out and Belongingness Needs among University Students: Internalizing Problems as a Mediator

Authors

  • Kiran Rashid Undergraduate Student, Department of Psychology, The University of Haripur, KPK, Pakistan.
  • Najia Zulfiqar Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, The University of Haripur, KPK, Pakistan.

Keywords:

Belongingness, Fear of missing out, Internet addiction, Internalizing problems, University students

Abstract

With the rise of technology in today's modern world, the Internet offers educational benefits but also results in addictive behaviors among university students. The present study examines the predictive role of fear of missing out and belongingness needs and the mediating role of internalizing problems in internet addiction among university students. The researchers collected data from 300 university students using a demographic questionnaire, the Fear of Missing Out Scale, the Need to Belong Scale, the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale, and the Chen Internet Addiction Scale. Two separate models were tested. Findings show that high fear of missing out and unmet belongingness needs predicted internalizing problems (i.e., depression, anxiety, & stress) and internet addiction among university students. Internet addiction increased by 32% with the interaction of predictor and mediator in both models. Universities can use these results to design prevention and intervention programs targeting students' well-being and academic success.

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Published

2024-09-30

How to Cite

Kiran Rashid, & Najia Zulfiqar. (2024). Internet Addiction as an Outcome of Fear of Missing Out and Belongingness Needs among University Students: Internalizing Problems as a Mediator. Pakistan Journal of Educational Research, 7(3), 37–53. Retrieved from https://pjer.org/index.php/pjer/article/view/1146