Prevalence and Correlates of Internet Addiction and its Association with Anxiety among School-going Adolescents in Lucknow, India: A Cross-sectional Study

Background: Internet addiction, defined as excessive and compulsive use of Internet-enabled devices, has emerged as an important public health concern due to its association with anxiety, emotional distress, and impaired daily functioning. In India, rapid digitalization and widespread access to smartphones and online platforms have significantly increased Internet use among adolescents, raising concerns about problematic usage patterns and their impact on mental health. Methods: A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted from June to December 2024 among 400 adolescents aged 12–18 years in Lucknow District, Uttar Pradesh, India. Participants were selected through a multistage stratified random sampling method from government and private schools. Data were collected through a questionnaire with Young’s Internet Addiction Test (IAT) and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) scale. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 22.0, employing Chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression. Results: Overall, 289 participants (72.25%) exhibited some degree of Internet addiction (IAT ≥31), while severe addiction in 4 participants (1%). Internet addiction showed significant associations with age, gender, school type, daily screen time, and anxiety severity (all P < 0.05). Multivariable analysis revealed higher odds of Internet addiction among adolescents aged 15–16 years, in private schools, longer screen time, and levels of anxiety. Female gender, higher parental education, private school attendance, and screen time exceeding 4 hours per day were identified as important risk factors. Conclusion: Internet addiction is highly prevalent among adolescents. Comprehensive school-based interventions, including mental health screening and awareness programs, are needed to promote healthy Internet use and psychological wellbeing.