Lived Experiences of Problematic Internet Use Among Male Adolescents: A Qualitative Study

Background: In the era of globalization, constant Internet access has led to problematic Internet use (PIU) among adolescents, negatively impacting their cognitive processes, emotions, and behavior.Objective: This qualitative study explores the effects of PIU among 15 self-identified male adolescents, aged 10 to 14 years (median age = 14.1), from northern Indian cities through the lens of transcendental phenomenological inquiry.Methods: Through purposive sampling, homogeneous groups were formed, and data were collected via semi-structured interviews, which were analyzed using Giorgi's method.Results: Four themes have emerged: antecedents of PIU (psychological vulnerabilities, social influence, and validation), PIU symptoms (cognitive and behavioral preoccupation and compulsive behavior), consequences of PIU (psychological, physical, interpersonal, academic, and positive impacts), and desire to change (recognition of negative impact, seeking support, and exploration of strategies).Conclusion: The study highlights the severe negative consequences of PIU and the need for urgent psychosocial interventions, and most adolescents expressed a desire to change their PIU.