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An Empirical Study of Problematic Internet Use and Self-Esteem

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  • Laura Widyanto

    (Nottingham Trent University, UK)

  • Mark Griffiths

    (Nottingham Trent University, UK)

Abstract

Previous research has alluded to the existence of a relationship between self-esteem and problematic Internet use. The main aim of the study was to examine the relationship between problematic Internet use and a number of distinct demographic, behavioural, and psychosocial variables. Using an online survey, a self-selected sample comprising 1,467 Internet users participated in the study. The survey comprised 50 questions including validated scales for both self-esteem (Rosenberg’s Self-Esteem Scale) and problematic Internet use (Internet Related Problem Scale; IPRS) in addition to demographic information. Based on previous literature, it was hypothesized that problematic Internet users were more likely than non-problematic Internet users to post low self-esteem scores. Results showed that self-esteem was strongly and negatively associated with IRPS. Also, for those with high IRPS scores, participation in online forums was the primary online activity followed by online gaming and chatting. Although the study comprised a self-selecting sample and utilized self-report, the results appear to provide robust evidence of an association between self-esteem and problematic Internet use mirroring prior research in the area.

Suggested Citation

  • Laura Widyanto & Mark Griffiths, 2011. "An Empirical Study of Problematic Internet Use and Self-Esteem," International Journal of Cyber Behavior, Psychology and Learning (IJCBPL), IGI Global, vol. 1(1), pages 13-24, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:igg:jcbpl0:v:1:y:2011:i:1:p:13-24
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    Cited by:

    1. Tomczyk, Łukasz & Lizde, Elma Selmanagic, 2022. "Nomophobia and Phubbing: Wellbeing and new media education in the family among adolescents in Bosnia and Herzegovina," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 137(C).

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