Internet Addiction and Social Anxiety Among Adolescents Post Covid in Digital World

Abstract

The Coronavirus pandemic and subsequent social distancing measures have significantly increased the reliance on digital technology and the internet. Among the population, adolescents appear to be particularly vulnerable to developing addiction issues related to technology use. Recent studies have indicated a rising trend in social anxiety disorders among adolescents, likely attributed to the prolonged and extensive internet usage during the pandemic. The research conducted in this domain has highlighted a gap in understanding the relationship between internet addiction and social anxiety. To address this gap, a study was conducted with a sample size of 120 adolescents (60 males and 60 females) using purposive sampling. The Chen Internet Addiction Scale (CIAS) and Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale (LSAS) were employed as assessment tools. Statistical analysis using SPSS revealed a positive correlation between internet addiction and social anxiety among both male and female adolescents post-COVID. This correlation was significant at the 0.01 level (p<0.01). Furthermore, no gender difference was observed in terms of internet addiction. The findings of this study suggest the need for further research to compare results among different age groups. Additionally, factors such as attitude, self-esteem, quality of life, emotional needs, substance use, stress, and depression could be considered alongside internet addiction and social anxiety. Understanding these complex relationships will contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the impact of the pandemic and subsequent lockdowns on adolescent mental health.