Virtual Triggers, Real Reactions: Investigating the Link Between Internet Addiction and Aggression
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15698874Keywords:
Internet addiction, aggression, university students, correlationAbstract
This study aims to examine the relationship between internet addiction and aggression among university students. In the study conducted with a relational screening design, data were collected from 289 university students using the Internet Addiction Scale and Aggression Scale. The findings show that male students scored significantly higher in all sub-dimensions of the aggression scale; however, there was a significant difference in terms of internet addiction only in the “negativity in social relationships” sub-dimension according to gender. In the analyses conducted according to grade level, it was observed that first-year students had higher levels of both internet addiction and aggression. While the family income level variable did not create a significant difference in internet addiction and aggression in general, it was found that low-income students scored higher only in the verbal aggression sub-dimension. Finally, positive and significant relationships were found between internet addiction and aggression in all sub-dimensions. These results reveal that problematic internet use can negatively affect the emotional and behavioral functioning of individuals. In line with the findings, it is recommended that protective and preventive psycho-education programs be developed in universities to raise awareness about the relationship between internet addiction and aggression.
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