Internet Addiction, Loneliness and Life Satisfaction: A Study of Undergraduate and Post Graduate Students of West Bengal, India

The rapid expansion of digital technologies has transformed students' academic and social lives, but excessive internet use has raised concerns regarding psychological well-being and overall life satisfaction. Internet addiction has increasingly been associated with feelings of loneliness and declining quality of life, particularly among young adults. The COVID-19 pandemic further intensified this problem by increasing reliance on online platforms for education, communication, and entertainment. Against this backdrop, the present study examines the relationship between internet addiction, loneliness, and life satisfaction among undergraduate and postgraduate students in West Bengal. A cross-sectional survey was conducted between December 2022 and March 2023 among 200 students from 19 colleges and 8 universities, representing diverse socio-economic and educational backgrounds. Data were collected using standardized instruments: Young's Internet Addiction Test (IAT), the UCLA Loneliness Scale (ULS), and the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS). Supplementary socio-economic information was also gathered. Statistical analyses included descriptive measures, reliability testing, Pearson correlation, and multiple linear regression. The results revealed a high prevalence of internet addiction among students, accompanied by moderate levels of loneliness and life satisfaction. Regression analysis showed that socio-economic factors such as caste, income, and urban-rural background significantly influenced addiction and well-being outcomes. Correlation results indicated a strong positive association between internet addiction and loneliness and a negative association with life satisfaction. The study highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions at institutional and policy levels to promote responsible internet use, enhance social connectedness, and improve psychological well-being among students in the post-pandemic context.