author(s)
Viruthasarani K

abstract
The pervasive integration of smartphones and internet technology in daily life has significantly influenced the behavioural patterns of college students, particularly those in demanding fields such as nursing. The increasing prevalence of internet addiction among students has become a significant concern in today's digital age, especially with the widespread use of smartphones. This study investigates the prevalence of internet addiction and its relationship with smartphone usage among students. A sample of 100 respondents was analysed to determine the levels of internet addiction and the extent of smartphone usage. The results revealed that 12% of students had low internet addiction, 48% exhibited moderate addiction, and 40% showed high addiction levels, indicating that a substantial portion of students experience problematic internet usage. A Pearson correlation analysis was conducted to explore the relationship between internet addiction and smartphone usage. The findings showed a weak positive correlation (r = 0.181), but the relationship was not statistically significant (p = 0.072). These results suggest that while smartphone usage may have a minor influence on internet addiction, it is not a definitive predictor in this sample. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions to address excessive internet usage among students and further research to examine additional factors contributing to internet addiction. Understanding the dynamics of smartphone usage and its impact on internet behaviour is essential for promoting healthier digital habits and overall well-being among students.