A Qualitative Inquiry on the Severity of the Impact of Pathological Internet Use on the Life Domains of Indian Adolescents Before and Amidst Covid-19

Abstract

The impact of Pathological Internet Use (PIU) on adolescents’ daily life is overwhelming. This study qualitatively explores the severity of the impacts of PIU, before and amidst the pandemic (COVID-19) on adolescents (M=15.7, SD=1.494), enrolled in the Central and State Educational boards of Kerala, South India. In the methodological process, this study utilized the six-phase processes of data engagement by Braun and Clarke. Semi-structured in-depth interviews (ten) and focus group discussions (twelve) were steered to have a comprehensive understanding of the lived experiences of the participants. The qualitative findings suggested that PIU severely impaired adolescents’ life in the cognitive, emotional, behavioural, academic, health and relational domains, especially during pandemic than it was before.