FEATURES OF ADDICTION IN THE EDUCATIONAL ENVIRONMENT: THE IMPACT OF GADGETS ON THE MENTAL HEALTH OF STUDENTS AND THE ROLE OF SELF-MANAGEMENT IN OVERCOMING THE CHALLENGES OF LEARNING

Abstract

The article examines the specifics of the impact of excessive use of gadgets on the mental health of young students. The main manifestations of digital addiction are identified: decreased concentration, emotional exhaustion, sleep disturbance, anxiety, aggressiveness, and social isolation. Special attention is paid to the role of self-management as a resource for maintaining mental well-being, which includes the development of self-regulation skills, time planning, and emotional stability. The study was conducted at the University of Ukraine. 100 students aged 18–25 participated in the study. The “Gadget Addiction Scale” methodology, the Eysenck test, and the Rosenberg self-esteem scale were used. The study results showed a high level of emotional addiction in 30% of students, frustration (25%), anxiety (35%), and aggressiveness (70%). It has been proven that prolonged use of gadgets reduces self-esteem in 20% of students, contributing to emotional instability. A set of practical recommendations for harmonizing interaction with digital technologies is proposed: the implementation of digital hygiene, time management techniques, the development of awareness, physical activity, and the formation of healthy online habits. It is concluded that the conscious use of gadgets in combination with self-management skills contributes to the preservation of students' mental health and increased learning efficiency.