Internet addiction and mental well-being among secondary school students in a Malaysian district: A cross-sectional survey (eng)

Introduction: Recent surveys showed high prevalence of internet addiction among school-goers in Malaysia, but few local studies explored the relationship between internet addiction and the levels of depression, anxiety and stress among adolescents.
Methods: A survey was conducted during a mental health seminar for students conveniently sampled from 18 secondary schools in Bentong, Pahang. The Malay versions of Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) and Internet Addiction Test (MVIAT) were administered.
Results: The questionnaires were completed by 125 participants (Age: 14 – 17 years old; male: 50.4%). Internet addiction was identified in 45.6%. No gender or ethnic difference was seen. The rates of depression, anxiety and stress were 25.6%, 47.2%, and 20.0% respectively. IAT scores significantly correlated with DASS scores. In MANOVA, internet-addicted students had significantly higher depression scores, (F (1, 123)=12.39; p<0.0005; partial η2=0.10), anxiety scores (F (1, 123)=19.19; p<0.0005; partial η2=0.14), and stress scores (F (1, 123)=26.75; p<0.0005; η2=0.18).
Conclusion: Significant association between internet addiction and mental ill-health was observed. Further investigations into relevant factors and effective interventions for internet addiction and comorbid conditions among adolescents are required.