Impact of Social Media Addiction on Academic Procrastination among College Students: A Cross-sectional Study from Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu, India

Introduction: The widespread use of social media has significantly impacted the daily routines of college students. While it facilitates communication and access to information, excessive use may lead to negative outcomes such as social media addiction, reduced sleep quality, impaired academic performance, and increased levels of anxiety and depression. This, in turn, is associated with academic procrastination, delaying academic tasks and responsibilities. Both conditions can affect students’ academic performance and overall wellbeing. Aim: To determine the prevalence and the relationship between social media addiction and academic procrastination among college students in Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu, India. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted at SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST), Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu, India, from January 2025 to March 2025 among 235 college students selected via multistage random sampling from three colleges within a multidisciplinary university. Data were collected using two validated tools: the Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale (BSMAS) and the Multidimensional Academic Procrastination Scale (MAPS-15). Data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27.0, employing descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was performed to examine the construct validity of the scales in the study population. Results: The prevalence of social media addiction was 139 (59.1%), and academic procrastination was observed in 120 (51.1%) of students. A statistically significant relationship was identified between social media addiction and academic procrastination, with social media addicted students being 4.7 times more likely to procrastinate (OR=4.792, 95%CI: 2.716- 8.457). Conclusion: The findings highlight a high burden of both social media addiction and academic procrastination among students, with a strong predictive link between the two. Targeted interventions addressing digital habits and time management may help reduce academic delays and improve student wellbeing.