Digital Media Dependence and Psychological Well-Being among Paramilitary Personnel: A Cross-Sectional Correlational Study

Objectives: To investigate Indian paramilitary personnel's reliance on digital devices and the associated psychological well-being. Method: The study was cross-sectional in nature and conducted using an exploratory research design. A convenience sample of five hundred (500) paramilitary personnel (representing Delhi and NCR region) was obtained using purposive sampling. Participants were drawn from different paramilitary services and operational units of BSF, CRPF, Assam rifle, SSB, CISF. The duration of data collection for this study was 6 months from June to December 2025. Participants ranged in age from 18 to 60, with the majority aged 26 to 45 years. Both males and females participated, with males being the predominant gender. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire. Instruments measured digital addiction, quality of sleep and psychological health. Data responses were measured using a five-point Likert scale. Events were analysed using descriptive statistics, independent sample t-tests, ANOVA, correlation and regression tests. Ethics, confidentiality and informed consent were maintained throughout the study. Findings: Most participants used the internet longer than they intended. Checking social media is an addictive behaviour across all age groups. More than 50% of participants experienced difficulty falling asleep and poor-quality sleep due to being exposed to screens late at night. Nearly half of all participants felt tired during the day because they did not get enough sleep. People who relied heavily on their devices experienced withdrawal-like symptoms when access to their devices was restricted. The preference to interact with others through the internet resulted in decreased levels of face-to-face social interactions. Social comparisons caused significant increases in emotional distress and lower self-esteem. Digital dependence was identified as a major psychological risk factor through regression analyses. Novelty: The current study provides valuable evidence to promote and support policy level regulations for digital usage by security forces. Keywords: Digital dependence, Paramilitary forces, Sleep quality, Mental health, Internet overuse