Quasi-experimental design improved academic focus in social work students, indicating CBT may reduce internet addiction effects through enhanced digital habits.
Purpose: WhatsApp is used for academic communication but can lead to distraction and lower productivity. This study examined the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy for internet addiction (CBT-IA) in reducing the negative effects of WhatsApp use among social work students at Sultan Qaboos University, Oman. Method: A quantitative, quasi-experimental design with pre- and post-test measures was employed during the 2023–2024 academic year. Thirty-four students were divided into experimental and control groups. The intervention was delivered over 24 sessions in three stages to improve students’ digital habits. Results: The results showed a significant reduction in WhatsApp use ( p < .001), improved academic focus ( p < .001), and healthier digital behaviors in the experimental group, while no significant changes were observed in the control group. Post-intervention comparisons revealed differences between groups. Discussion: The findings suggest that CBT-IA may help students manage digital distractions and develop healthier digital habits in educational contexts.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Mohamed Mohamed Kamel Elsherbiny (2026) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 2 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: