DIGITALNA OVISNOST KOD SREDNJOŠKOLACA: PSIHOSOCIJALNI I ZDRAVSTVENI ASPEKTI
DIGITAL ADDICTION IN HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS: PSYCHOSOCIAL AND HEALTH ASPECTS

Summary/Abstract: The internet and social media have become an integral part of adolescents' daily lives. Although digital technologies facilitate access to information and communication, increasing evidence indicates the negative consequences of excessive internet use on mental health, academic performance, and sleep quality. Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence and characteristics of problematic internet use among students of the Medical School in Travnik and to analyze the association between time spent online, academic performance, sleep quality, and selected psychosocial indicators. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted among 93 third-grade students of the Medical School in Travnik. Data were collected using an anonymous questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and the chi-square test were applied, while the strength of association was assessed using Cramer's V coefficient. Results: Most students reported spending between four and six hours online during weekdays, while more than half spent over six hours online during weekends. A statistically significant association was found between time spent online and academic performance (p=0.0139), as well as between gender and neglect of school obligations (p=0.0008). Many students reported sleep disturbances, reduced concentration, and occasional anxiety. Conclusion: The findings indicate a high prevalence of intensive internet use among high school students and its association with academic functioning and sleep quality. Preventive programs promoting responsible use of digital technologies among adolescents are needed.

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