Lalita
Chaudhary Bansi Lal University, Haryana
Pages: 239-248
This empirical research paper investigates the relationship between internet usage,
loneliness, and depression among school and college students, comparing the two
populations across these variables. A comprehensive literature review establishes the
existing body of knowledge regarding the individual and interconnected effects of internet
usage, loneliness, and depression on adolescent and young adult well-being. The study
employs a quantitative methodology, utilizing established scales to measure internet
addiction, loneliness, and depressive symptoms in a large sample of school and college
students. The results reveal significant correlations between internet usage, loneliness,
and depression in both populations, although the strength and nature of these
relationships may differ between school and college students. The discussion section
analyzes these findings, considering potential mediating and moderating factors,
limitations of the study, and implications for future research. The paper concludes by
highlighting the need for targeted interventions to address the complex interplay between
internet usage, loneliness, and depression in these crucial developmental stages.