Experiential Avoidance Linked to Internet Addiction in College Students

Strategic Insights -

Research conducted at Jishou University in People's Republic of China has revealed a significant correlation between experiential avoidance and Internet addiction among college students. The study, which surveyed 1,506 students, found that avoidance of emotional experiences was associated with higher levels of Internet addiction, and that depression partially mediated this relationship. Notably, physical activity was found to moderate the relationship between experiential avoidance and depression, suggesting that incorporating physical activity into mental health interventions could potentially alleviate depression and reduce Internet addiction risk.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study found a significant positive correlation between experiential avoidance and Internet addiction among college students, with 1,506 students participating in the survey.
  • Experiential avoidance showed significant positive correlations with both Internet addiction and depression, while physical activity was significantly negatively correlated with these variables.
  • Depression partially mediated the relationship between experiential avoidance and Internet addiction, indicating that individuals who avoid emotional experiences are more likely to experience depression and subsequent Internet addiction.
  • Physical activity was found to moderate the relationship between experiential avoidance and depression, suggesting that incorporating physical activity into mental health interventions could have a beneficial effect.
  • The study highlights the importance of considering both psychological well-being and physical activity in interventions aimed at reducing Internet addiction risk among college students.

Statistics:

  • 1,506 college students participated in the survey conducted at Jishou University.
  • Experiential avoidance showed significant positive correlations with both Internet addiction (r = 0.45, p < 0.01) and depression (r = 0.38, p < 0.01).
  • Physical activity was significantly negatively correlated with Internet addiction (r = -0.25, p < 0.05) and depression (r = -0.30, p < 0.05).
  • The study found that depression partly mediated the relationship between experiential avoidance and Internet addiction, with depression accounting for 25% of the variance in Internet addiction.

Sources:

  • Wang, J., et al. (2025). Physical activity moderates the mediating role of depression between experiential avoidance and Internet addiction. Scientific Reports, 15(1), 20704.
  • Nature Portfolio. (2025). Physical activity moderates the mediating role of depression between experiential avoidance and Internet addiction. Scientific Reports. doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-20704-4.