DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sjams.2026.v14i04.006

Pages: 458-466

Background: The rapid proliferation of internet usage among college students has emerged as a significant concern in contemporary academic and psychological research. Internet addiction is characterized by compulsive, excessive internet use that interferes with daily functioning, academic performance, and interpersonal relationships. Degree college students are particularly vulnerable given their increased exposure to digital devices, social pressures, and academic demands. Loneliness and low self-esteem have been identified as key psychological correlates of internet addiction, creating a complex bidirectional relationship that adversely affects mental well-being. Aim: To assess the impact of internet addiction on loneliness and self-esteem among degree students at selected degree colleges in Bagalkot. Methods: A quantitative, non-experimental descriptive co-relational research design was employed. Data were collected from 100 degree students aged 18–24 years at Government First Grade Degree College, Navanagar, Bagalkot, using proportionate stratified random sampling. Three validated tools were used: Young's Internet Addiction Test (IAT), UCLA Loneliness Scale, and Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. Karl Pearson's correlation coefficient was applied to determine the relationship between variables, and Chi-square test was used to identify associations between sociodemographic variables and study outcomes. Results: The majority of students (73%) were male and most (23%) were aged 21–22 years. Regarding internet addiction, 49% had mild addiction, 44% were normal, and 7% had moderate addiction. For loneliness, 67% had mild loneliness and 24% moderate loneliness. Regarding self-esteem, 95% had normal self-esteem, 4% had low self-esteem, and 1% had high self-esteem. Karl Pearson's correlation revealed a negative, statistically non-significant correlation (r = 0) between internet addiction and both loneliness and self-esteem. Chi-square analysis revealed no significant associat