ASSESSING SMARTPHONE ADDICTION, WELL-BEING, AND CYBERCHONDRIA IN UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS IN INDIA

Abstract

While the internet is a popular source for health information, extensive research can cause worry, known as cyberchondria. Non-medical and medical individuals perceive this information differently, resulting in varying incidences of cyberchondria among medical and non-medical professionals. Smartphone addiction can have an influence on mental health and result in cyberchondria. 

Aim: The current study sought to analyse smartphone addiction, well-being, and cyberchondria in students from India. 

Methods: The current study was a cross-sectional survey-based evaluation that included 2066 participants and undergraduate students aged 18 and up studying at an Indian institution. To collect data, the current study used the SAS-SV (Smartphone Addiction Scale-Short Version), WHO-5 well-being index, and CSS-12 (Cyberchondria Severity Scale-Short Form).  

Method: The poll includes 2066 respondents, with 53% being female and 46% being male. 58% of participants were pursuing medical or paramedical studies, while 42% were non-medical. Cyberchondria of severe severity was observed in 4.4% of the individuals. The medical group had considerably lower total CCS compared to the non-medical group (p<0.01). Smartphone addiction was reported by 57.2% and 55.9% of individuals, respectively (p=0.66). Medical students had significantly lower average well-being scores than non-medical students (p<0.01). Smartphone addiction and cyberchondria severity were shown to be positively correlated in both groups.