Relationship among problematic internet use, psychological flexibility processes, and life satisfaction

Problematic internet use; it refers to the loss of control in online activities and the use of the internet for longer than intended and without a clear purpose. The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between problematic internet use, psychological flexibility processes and life satisfaction among university students. The sample of the study consists of 218 university students between the ages of 18-35. Demographic Information Form, Problematic Internet Use Scale (PIUS), Acceptance and Action Form-II (KEF-II), Self-as-Context Inventory (SACI), Value-Oriented Life Scale (VOLS) and Adult Life Satisfaction Scale (ALSI) were administered to the participants. The data were analyzed by Spearman correlation analysis, Mann Whitney U test, Kruskal Wallis-H test and regression analysis based on bootstrap technique. The findings show that the problematic internet use and the level of experiential avoidance are significantly higher in female participants. According to correlation analysis findings, there are significant negative relationships between problematic internet use and acceptance, self-as-context and life satisfaction. In addition, there are significant positive relationships between life satisfaction and acceptance, self-as- context, contact with values, and value-oriented actions. The mediator variable analysis findings show that acceptance and self-as-context have a mediator effect in the relationship between problematic internet use and life satisfaction. The findings obtained were discussed in the light of the studies in the literature.