Internet Addiction and Eating Attitude among College Students

Abstract

Internet addiction (IA) has become a growing global concern, particularly among college students. This study aimed to examine the relationship between Internet addiction and eating attitudes among college students. A total of 150 participants (77 males and 73 females), aged 18 to 24 years, were selected using a simple random sampling method. Participants completed a demographic questionnaire along with the Internet Addiction Test (IAT-20) and the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26). Pearson correlation analysis revealed that dimensions of Internet addiction—specifically social isolation, deprivation, and total IA—were positively associated with dieting behaviour (r = .20, p < .05; r = .18, p < .05; r = .17, p < .05, respectively). Bulimia and food preoccupation were significantly correlated with avoidance, social isolation, deprivation, and total IA (r = .20 to .41, p < .01). Avoidance was positively correlated with oral control (r = .18, p < .05). Total IA and its three sub-dimensions also showed significant positive correlations with overall eating attitudes (r = .20 to .29, p < .01). Gender differences were found in eating attitudes: male students scored higher than females in bulimia and food preoccupation, oral control, and total eating attitude scores. Students from joint families and those belonging to higher socioeconomic status demonstrated higher mean scores in eating attitude dimensions. These findings suggest a significant relationship between Internet addictions and disordered eating behaviours, with demographic factors such as gender, family type, and socioeconomic status playing a moderating role. The study underscores the need for targeted interventions to address co-occurring behavioral and psychological issues among youth.