The relationship between problematic Internet use and physical inactivity in student youth

Abstract

The present study analyzes the relationship between problematic Internet use and physical activity levels in students, taking into account the gender aspect. GPIUS3 and IPAQ questionnaires were used. The results revealed a critical situation: 73,3% of students are at high risk of problematic Internet use, and 53,3% show signs of physical inactivity. Significant gender differences have been established. Among women, the proportion of people with a high risk of problematic Internet use reaches 79,2%, and physical inactivity - 67%, while in men these indicators are 59,1% and 20,5%, respectively. Correlation analysis revealed a moderate inverse association between problematic internet use and physical activity (r = -0,38, p <0,001). The strongest associations were found for mood regulation scales (r = -0,36) and compulsive use (r = -0,37). In women, all components of the questionnaire were GPIUS3 significantly correlated with physical activity (r = -0,42), while in men there were no statistically significant associations. The results confirm the close relationship between problematic Internet use and physical inactivity, especially pronounced in female students, which requires the development of gender-oriented preventive programs.