The Impact of TikTok Addiction on Depression, Anxiety and Stress Severity among University Students
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31436/ijcs.v8i3.464Keywords:
Digital addiction, Malaysia, Mental health, Social media, TikTok, Young adultAbstract
Background: TikTok’s personalized content and short video format have contributed to its widespread popularity, particularly among university students. However, these same features make it potentially addictive, raising concerns about its impact on mental health. This study aims to examine the relationship between TikTok addiction and levels of depression, anxiety, and stress among university students in Malaysia.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 402 undergraduate students at IIUM Kuantan Campus using a structured questionnaire comprising socio-demographic items, the TikTok Addiction Scale (TTAS), and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21). Across different academic disciplines; TTAS differences were tested with one-way ANOVA and DAS score differences with Kruskal-Wallis. Correlation analysis was run using Spearman’s correlation. Data were analysed using Jamovi software.
Results: Results indicated that 20.1% (N=81) of participants were classified as TikTok addicted, while the remaining 79.9% (N=321) were not. Most students reported mild to moderate levels of depression and anxiety, with minimal stress; however, some experienced more severe symptoms. A positive correlation was found between TikTok addiction and higher levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. Sociodemographic factors such as gender and academic program showed no significant association with either TikTok addiction or mental health outcomes.
Conclusion: The findings suggest that excessive TikTok use is associated with students’ psychological well-being. Efforts from educational institutions, parents, and students themselves are essential to promote balanced usage, potentially reducing mental health risks and supporting academic and personal development.
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