When connection becomes distress: Psychosocial profiles of digital behavior and mental health among Spanish university students

The pervasive integration of smartphones and social media into daily life has transformed digital behavior into a central component of psychosocial functioning among young adults. In Spain, nearly half of university students report problematic smartphone use, and over 30% spend more than five hours per day on their devices during weekdays. This study aimed to identify distinct psychosocial profiles based on digital behavior and mental health indicators in a sample of 416 Spanish university students (71.9% female; M age = 21.9, SD = 4.93). A cluster analysis was conducted on standardized scores for digital addiction symptoms, nomophobia, recreational digital engagement, attachment-related anxiety, depression, loneliness, self-esteem, psychological well-being, and sleep health. Cluster 1 (n=159) exhibited high scores for addiction symptoms, nomophobia, attachment-related anxiety, depression, loneliness and poor sleep quality, and lower scores for sleep quantity; Cluster 2 (n=128) showed the lowest scores across digital addiction symptoms, nomophobia, and psychological symptoms and Cluster 3 (n=129) demonstrated lowest scores in poor sleep quality, moderate digital engagement, attachment-related anxiety, depression and loneliness but significantly better self-esteem and sleep quantity. ANOVA and Tukey’s post-hoc tests confirmed significant differences across clusters (p < .001) for all variables. These findings highlight the multidimensional nature of digital addiction and its cumulative associations with psychological and sleep-related outcomes. The identification of differentiated profiles supports the development of tailored interventions ranging from cognitive-behavioral therapy for high-risk groups to preventive psychoeducation for low-risk users. This study contributes to a nuanced understanding of digital behavior and its psychological correlates in university populations. • This paper explores psychosocial profiles of digital behavior and mental health • Three distinct psychosocial profiles of digital behavior were identified • High addiction cluster showed greater attachment-related anxiety, depression, loneliness, and poor sleep • Low addiction cluster reported better psychosocial functioning and healthier sleep patterns • These findings underscore the need for tailored interventions for university populations.