The Examination of the Relationship Between Internet Addiction and Loneliness and Happiness in Middle School Students

This study aims to investigate the relationship between internet addiction, loneliness, and school-related happiness among middle school students. This quantitative research was designed according to the correlational survey method. The research sample consists of 927 students attending various middle schools in the central district of Adıyaman province. Data were collected using the Personal Information Form, the Internet Addiction Scale, the Child-Centered Loneliness Scale for Grades 5-8, and the School Children’s Happiness Inventory. The findings revealed a moderately significant positive correlation between students’ levels of internet addiction and loneliness, as well as a moderately significant negative correlation between internet addiction and school happiness. Furthermore, both loneliness and happiness at school were found to be significant predictors of internet addiction. The results suggest that experiences of loneliness and reduced happiness at school may contribute to increased internet addiction among middle school students.