Relation between level of internet addiction and aggression among adolescents

Abstract

Due to the technological advancement and availability of smart phones, internet is easily accessible for every individual. Internet has been perceived as a best friend for everyone; hence, amount of time spent on the internet is rapidly increasing. Amongst any other age groups, adolescents are the most vulnerable group to use internet. The effects of excessive use of internet can lead to aggressiveness causing psychosocial behavioral problems. In the light of these perspectives, the present study was undertaken to find the relation between Internet Addiction and Aggression among adolescents. A sample of 200 adolescents between the age group of 13-15 years studying in 8th, 9th and 10th standard from different schools of Hyderabad, Telangana state were selected for the study. The Internet Addiction Test (IAT; Young, 1998) and Aggression Questionnaire (Buss & Perry, 1992) was used to elicit the data. The results revealed that there is a positive significant relation found between level of Internet addiction and dimensions of Physical aggression and Hostility among adolescents. Further, there is no significant relation found between level of Internet addiction and dimensions of Verbal aggression and Anger among adolescents.