Distraction and Estrangement in the Digital Age: A sociological study based on the girl students of Kailash hostel of Lucknow University

Abstract: This research paper explores the impact of digital technologies on the lives of girl’s students, focusing specifically on feelings of distraction and estrangement in the digital age. The study is centred on the resident of Kailash Hostel at Lucknow University. The study examines how excessive engagement with digital devices particularly smartphones and laptops affect academic focus, emotional well-being, interpersonal relationships, and the overall sense of community. In the digital age, social media platforms, while designed to enhance interaction and provide entertainment, have also led to unintended psychological dependencies. Users often become subconsciously dominated by these technologies, resulting in a paradox where tools meant for connection contribute to emotional detachment and social engagement. The study is grounded in theoretical frameworks such as Karl Marx’s theory of alienation, Sherry Turkle’s concept of digital disconnection, and feminist media theory. offering a multidimensional perspective on digital saturation in academic life. The present research will be based on mixed method approach and include a google form questionnaire and interview scheduled examines screen-time habits, emotional outcomes, and patterns of social participation among U.G. & P.G. girl’s students. Gendered experiences further reveal pressures related to online visibility, self-presentation, and digital surveillance. The Research Paper contribute to the broader discourse on digital culture by presenting a localized, gender-sensitive analysis of estrangement in higher education. It emphasizes the need for digital mindfulness, institutional interventions, and community engagement to mitigate the isolating effects of hyperconnectivity and help students reclaim control over their digital lives.