Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: The study aimed to assess the level of social networking addiction among married individuals, examine its association with selected socio-demographic and marital variables, and explore strategies adopted to manage social media use and maintain quality family time. A descriptive research design with purposive sampling was used among 50 married individuals. Data were collected through an online questionnaire using the 21-item Social Networking Addiction Scale (SNAS) developed by Shahnawaz and Rehman (2020), along with two open-ended questions. Descriptive and nonparametric statistical tests were conducted using JAMOVI, and thematic analysis was used for qualitative responses. The mean SNAS score was 58.90 (SD = 23.20), with 86% of respondents classified under non-addiction and 14% under addiction. The SNAS demonstrated excellent internal consistency (Cronbach's α = .922). No significant differences in social networking addiction were found by gender, family type, or educational level, and years of marriage was not significantly associated with addiction scores. Thematic analysis identified strategies involving productive activities, family engagement, alternative leisure activities, direct screen regulation, communication, shared activities, family outings, and distraction-free family time. Social networking addiction was not widespread, while participants demonstrated various strategies for maintaining balanced digital use and meaningful family interactions.
Authors: Charumathi B S, Richa Gupta
Institution: Jain University
Language: English
Subfield: Sociology and Political Science
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7213873669