Exploring the Predictive Dynamics of Net Compulsions and Perceived Loneliness on Digital Escapism in Emerging Adults

Abstract

The relationship between emerging adults' net compulsions and their perceptions of loneliness and their use of digital escapist is investigated in this study. As a coping technique to avoid dealing with real-life emotional or social difficulties, digital escapism is a common behaviour; this study seeks to understand how compulsive internet use as well as loneliness contribute to this propensity. Using standardized questionnaires that assessed issues including digital escapism, loneliness, and compulsive internet usage, data was gathered from 495 young individuals. According to the research, digital escapism was strongly predicted by net compulsions and loneliness, with various aspects of these factors displaying diverse degrees of effect. Two factors that stood out as major indicators of digital escapism in the study were cognitive salience and the degree to which internet use became uncontrollable. Elevated escapist levels were also associated with loneliness, especially relational and communal loneliness. These results highlight the need for therapies targeting digital escapism to take into account both compulsive internet usage and feelings of isolation. We address the study's shortcomings, such as its cross-sectional design as well as dependence on self-reported data, and offer suggestions for both theoretical and practical measures to address these issues.