A Comprehensive Analyses of Affective Health and Sex Differences in Adolescents as a Function of Peer Pressure and Internet Addiction

Abstract

Introduction: Existing research literature has shown that the dynamics of depressive traits in adolescents are influenced heavily by various psycho-social factors such as peer pressure and addictive tendencies. Purpose: The study was conducted to investigate the interrelationship between internet addiction and peer pressure on adolescent depression. Methodology: The sample of adolescents ( N = 94) in the age range of 13–18 years was collected using a stratified random sampling design. Three major psychometric tools were administered to the sample, namely, Internet Addiction Test, Peer Pressure Inventory, and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale. Correlation and inferential analyses were done on the acquired data. Findings: The sample reflected moderate tendencies to have peer pressure, internet addiction and depression. It also showed a significant positive correlation between internet addiction and depression, an insignificant positive relationship between peer pressure and depression along with a significant effect of sex on adolescent depression but insignificant sex differences on peer pressure and internet addiction. Limitations: The descriptive nature of the study reveals less about the causal relationships between the variables. Implications: The study encourages parents to redefine their roles and parenting styles while dealing with adolescents.