Examining the relationship between internet addiction and social safeness and pleasure level in nursing students

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between internet addiction and social safeness and pleasure level in nursing students.
METHODS: This study was design as a descriptive-cross-sectional and correlational study. The study was carried out in a state university nursing department between March 01, 2022, and June 10, 2022. The population of the study consists of nursing students (n=979). The sample consisted of 563 students. “Personal Information Form,” “Young’s Internet Addiction Test-Short Form (YIAT-SF)” and “Social Safety and Pleasure Scale” were used to collect the data.
RESULTS: In the present study, it was found that the students’ YIAT-SF mean score was 27.47±8.99, and their Social Safeness and Pleasure Scale mean score was 30.17±8.43. Those who were 2nd-year students, had an average internet usage time of 5–9 h and more than 10 h, did not have a personal computer, and considered the time they spent on the internet more had higher internet addiction levels, and lower social safeness and pleasure levels; on the other hand, those who were younger than 20 years old, were staying in dormitories and houses with their friends, and evaluated their income status as moderate or low, had lower social safeness and pleasure levels; on the other hand, the level of internet addiction was higher for men and those living with their families.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: A negative significant correlation was found between internet addiction and social safeness and pleasure. As internet addiction increased, the level of social safeness and pleasure decreased.