The Mediating Role of Self-Esteem in the Relationship Between Internet Addiction and Depression among University Students

Abstract

This study examines the mediating role of self-esteem in the relationship between internet addiction and depression among university students. A total of 352 students (187 female, 165 male) from Gopalganj Science and Technology University were selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using the Bangla version of Internet Addiction Test (IAT), Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Data were analyzed using SPSS 27, employing Pearson correlation, independent samples t-tests, and mediation analysis via Hayes’ Process Macro 4.2. Results indicated a significant negative correlation between internet addiction and self-esteem, and between self-esteem and depression, while internet addiction was positively correlated with depression. Mediation analysis demonstrated that self-esteem partially mediated the relationship between internet addiction and depression, suggesting that internet addiction reduces self-esteem, which in turn increases depressive symptoms. These findings highlight the importance of addressing self-esteem in interventions targeting internet addiction to mitigate its psychological consequences. Future research should explore additional mediators and causal relationships to strengthen understanding in this area.