Relationship between Internet Addiction and Identity Styles in Bushehr University of Medical Sciences Students

Internet addiction is excessive use of the Internet (daily more than three hours). This is social and psychological damage with severe consequences for young people, especially college students. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between Internet addiction and identity styles in Bushehr University of Medical Sciences students.

The present research is a descriptive correlational study. The statistical population was all students of Bushehr University of Medical Sciences. The sample included 277 students studying at Bushehr University of Medical Sciences who were selected using simple random sampling. The data were collected using demographic characteristics, the Berzonsky Identity Style Inventory, and Yangchr('39')s Internet addiction questionnaire. For analyzing data, statistical Pearson correlation, ANOVA, t-test were used by SPSS 23 statistical software.

The result showed that 90.2 percent of students were non-addicted, and 9.8 percent are addicted to the Internet. The average information identity is 40.29±6.65, and the avoidance identity is 27.89±6.21. The correlation between normative identity style (-0.30) and information (-.0.26) with Internet addiction in a negative direction is statistically significant (p<0.001).

The present studychr('39')s findings confirm the relationship between informational and normative identity styles and Internet addiction. According to the results of this study, it is necessary to develop programs such as training the Internetchr('39')s correct use at universities and filling studentschr('39') leisure time.