Locus of control and psychological well-being in college students: The mediating roles of cell phone multitasking and self-regulation

The increasing integration of smartphones into daily life has significantly impacted educational outcomes and psychological well-being (PWB) among college students. Locus of control (LOC) influences individual behaviors, including cell phone multitasking (CPM) and cell phone self-regulation (CPSR), which may serve as mediators in the LOC-PWB relationship. Understanding these mediating effects is crucial for addressing the challenges posed by excessive digital engagement and promoting adaptive self-regulatory behaviors. This study examines the mediating roles of CPM and CPSR in the relationship between LOC and PWB among college students. It aims to determine whether students with an internal LOC are less likely to engage in CPM and more likely to practice CPSR, leading to differential effects on PWB. A quantitative, correlational study was conducted with 627 university students. Participants completed validated surveys assessing LOC, CPM, CPSR, and PWB. Descriptive statistics, hierarchical regression, and mediation analyses were employed to explore direct and indirect effects. Mediation analysis was performed using the PROCESS macro in SPSS. Findings revealed that LOC was negatively associated with CPM and positively associated with CPSR. CPM negatively predicted PWB, while CPSR positively influenced PWB. Mediation analysis confirmed that CPM and CPSR significantly mediated the LOC-PWB relationship, highlighting distinct pathways through which digital behaviors influence well-being. While an internal LOC indirectly enhances PWB by reducing CPM, it also promotes CPSR, which paradoxically relates to lower PWB. These findings shed light on the educational computing behaviors underscoring the complexity of digital self-regulation and its psychological effects. Interventions promoting balanced smartphone use and mindful engagement may help mitigate the adverse effects of multitasking while leveraging self-regulation for positive outcomes.