Abstract
Background: The increasing integration of digital devices into academic and personal life has raised concerns regarding problematic usage patterns among university students. Nursing students, due to academic demands and clinical responsibilities, may be particularly vulnerable to compulsive and uncontrolled digital device use, which can negatively affect their academic performance, psychological well-being, and daily functioning.
Objective: The study aimed to determine the prevalence and patterns of problematic digital device use among nursing students in south Punjab.
Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed. A total of 37 nursing students from 2nd, 3rd, and 4th years were selected through convenient sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire consisting of socio-demographic characteristics and a 26-item Likert scale assessing compulsive behavior and loss of control related to digital device use. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, and mean scores.
Results: Findings revealed a high prevalence of problematic digital device use among participants. In the compulsive behavior domain, the mean score was 4.19/5, indicating strong emotional dependency and habitual device use. Similarly, the loss of control domain showed a mean score of 4.06/5, reflecting impaired self regulation and difficulty limiting usage. A large proportion of students reported constant device possession, excessive scrolling, inability to reduce usage, and negative impacts on sleep, academics, and physical activity. Overall, the composite mean score (4.12/5) indicated a high level of problematic digital engagement.
Conclusion: The study concluded that nursing students exhibit a high prevalence of problematic digital device use characterized by compulsive behavior and loss of control. These findings highlight the need for targeted awareness programs, including digital detox interventions, to promote healthy digital habits and improve students’ academic and psychological well-being.