Relation between Internet Addiction and Sleep Problems among Adolescents

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Faculty of nursing , Sohage university, Egypt

Abstract

Abstract:
Background: The prevalence of internet use among adolescents has extremely increased and has negative impact on adolescents' lives. It appears to be related with problematic sleep habits and sleep problems. The aim of the study: investigate the relation between internet addictions and sleep problem among adolescents. Subjects and Methods: Research design: A Cross-sectional research design was adopted for this study. Setting: three preparatory and secondary schools at Assuit City in October 2016. Subject: A total of 180 adolescents were recruited to the study which selected randomly. Tools of data collection: There were three tools used in the current study as the following: A structured socio-demographic questionnaire, Young‟s Internet Addiction Scale (IAS) and semi-structured inquiry on sleep habits/sleep problems of adolescents. Results: The mean age of the sample was 14±0.98 years (range 12-18 years). The current study indicated an association between the internet addiction and impaired sleep. Results found to have higher frequencies of several sleep problems including difficulty in initiating and sustaining sleep, difficulty in waking up and feelings of sleepiness in day. Conclusion: It was concluded that sleep problems were found to be more frequent in adolescents with a higher IAS total score. Recommendation: Health care nursing providers must be aware of the possible negative impact of Internet addiction and Careful supervision and evaluation of adolescents to who are under the risk of internet addiction and sleep problems.

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