THE ASSESSMENT OF INTERNET ADDICTION AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS: SOME FINDINGS FROM A FOCUS GROUP STUDY

Abstract

The university student population has been regarded as one of the most susceptible to developing Internet addiction among all demographic groups of Internet users. This paper reports the findings obtained from a focus group study conducted among 8 undergraduate students on the issue of Internet addiction. Data and insights were sought from the undergraduates regarding their Internet use patterns as well as their response to the Generalized Problematic Internet Usage Scale 2 (GPIUS2). Findings revealed that Internet use patterns have changed in recent times and that the GPIUS2 is an appropriate measurement tool for Internet addiction among students. Other implications from the findings are du..