The impact of free time management skills and socio-demographic factors on internet addiction among university students

Objective: The present study aimed to examine the impact of free time management skills and socio demographic characteristics on the levels of Intemot addiction among university students. Methods: A total of 1241 students from all departments of a state university completed online surveys, which comprised three sections: a personal information form, the Young's Internet Addiction test short form (MAI-SF), and the Free Time Management Scale. This cross sectional study employed a proportional quota sampling method. Results: The study's results revealed a strong significant negative relationship between Internet addiction scores and the free time management skills of the students (3--0.415, p < 0.001 ) Another significant finding suggested that Internet addiction level is higher among studentsbelonging ; to younger groups F = 3.324 , p < 0b ), those living far away from their families (F-4,105, p<0.01), and those coming from lower income groups (F-5.177, p < 0.01 ) . However, IA scores did not differ between sex groups. Considering the free time management skills of the students, variables such as older age F = 11.553 p<0,001), higher income F = 3.54 , p<0.05), and being educated in social sciences (F-4.266, p<0.05) were determinants of free time management. However, sex, family type, and place of residence did not impact their mean scores of free time management. Additionally spending time on physical and social activities decreased the Internet addiction levels of the students F = 3.2/6 p < 0.06 ). Conclusion : Encouraging students to participate in physical, social, outdoor, cultural, group, or hobby oriented activities can contribute to young people's social adaptation and help reduce Internet addiction.