Relationship between Alexithymia, difficulties in emotion regulation, mental health and internet addiction in young adults

Abstract

The internet has become a necessary tool for everyone in the 21st century. From using Google, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram to paying bills, shopping, etc. the internet provides us with a range of services. But at the same time, the number of hours spent online mindlessly scrolling through the websites or binge watching your favorite shows has increased and has become a cause of worry – for both, physical and mental health related issues. The present study aimed to investigate the role of certain psychological variables which are associated with addiction, mainly internet addiction. Alexithymia, emotion regulation difficulties and poor mental health can result into problematic internet use among young adults. Based on these views, it was hypothesized that these variables have association with internet addiction and internet addiction can be predicted by them. Total 250 young adults from different parts of the country participated in the study via offline and online modes of data collection following the safety protocols for COVID-19 virus. Consent form, demographic details and variable tests were given to the sample. Data analysis indicated that alexithymia and difficulties in emotion regulation had a positive correlation with internet addiction, mental health had a negative correlation and regression was significant. Out of all the three variables emotion regulation difficulties could explain internet addiction. Results showed that there was an association between alexithymia, difficulties in emotion regulation, mental health and internet addiction (is greater than 0.01 significant level).