Abstract:
In the backdrop of growing number of social media applications and widespread internet use, there is also a growing concern regarding the excessive use of the internet among young adults. Several factors have been identified as vital in determining problematic internet use. Despite the increasing number of internet users in Pakistan, the research done is either insufficient or methodologically flawed. Current study aimed to address the research gaps in studies done previously on Problematic Internet Use and Parental attachment by using improved methodology. It also studied the impact of psychological distress due to COVID-19. A correlational quantitative research design was used. A total of 142 young adults (above 18 years) residing in Pakistan, with no previous psychiatric history, were selected and they completed the Experiences in Closed Relationships – Relationships Structures (ECR-RS) scale, Generalized Problematic Internet Use Scale – 2 (GPIUS-2) and Kessler Psychological Distress Scale – 10 (K10). Results showed no significant differences among males and females on scores of GPIU. Psychological Distress and Parental attachment; paternal and not maternal had a significant positive association with GPIU. Regression analysis showed that duration of internet use, psychological distress and parental attachment anxiety with father were significant predictors in the model. Interestingly, attachment anxiety with father was found to be a significant predictor for males only as opposed to females. Moderation analysis revealed that psychological distress significantly moderates the relationship between attachment and PIU. The implications of the findings are discussed.
