A Prevalence of problematic social media usage and internet induced loneliness among Gen-Z in King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Generation Z, immersed in a digital age, faces unique challenges to mental well-being. While social media offers connectivity, its excessive use has been linked to loneliness. This study examines the prevalence of problematic social media use and how it associates with loneliness among Pakistani Gen Z. By understanding these issues, we aim to inform interventions promoting digital well-being.

Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out between January and July of 2024 at King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan, involving the undergraduate students from first year MBBS to final year MBBS. Data on social demographics, problematic use of social media  and internet induced loneliness was obtained by getting the questionnaires filled by 153 students from all the five classes in almost equal proportions.

Results: This study analyzed a number of variables including problematic social media usage, loneliness, age, gender, academic year, and religious affiliation. The demographic characteristics had no statistically significant association with problematic social media usage. Of the 153 individuals, the vast majority (76.47%) exhibited low or no loneliness. Second-year students reported a significant loneliness p-value (0.025). Problematic and non-problematic social media users differed significantly in their loneliness scores (t=-3.265, P=0.001), with the problematic users generally experiencing increased levels of loneliness than the non-problematic users.

Conclusion: Despite the low prevalence of problematic social media usage, a significant association between it and increased loneliness was found among students. While overall loneliness levels were relatively low, second-year students reported higher rates. These findings highlight the need for interventions targeting loneliness and problematic social media usage.

Keywords: Gen Z, Social Media, Problematic Social Media Usage, Internet, Loneliness, Digital Wellbeing, Social Connectivity.