The Rate of Internet Anxiety among Kerman Dentistry School Students

Forogheh Montajab¹, Torabi Molouk²*, KarimiAfshar Hossein³

Ÿ Received: 26. 10. 2015             Ÿ Revised: 23. 01. 2016              Ÿ Accepted: 01. 03. 2016

2. Associated Professor, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, School of Dental, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.

3. PhD Student, School of Medical, ShahidBeheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.

*Correspondence: Department of Oral Pathology, Shafa St, School of Dentistry, Kerman.

Tel: 03432119021   Fax: 03432118074                          Email: m.torabi.p@gmail.com

Abstract

Introduction:Internet has been developed as the most popular media in the last years, due to its specific characteristics such as convenient access and use, user security and low cost. The aim of the present study was to investigate the rate of internet anxiety among Kerman dentistry school students.

Method:This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 235 dental students selected through census sampling method. Data were collected through a questionnaire of demographics features (age, sex) and internet anxiety questionnaire (consisting 20 items). Data were analyzed through SPSS18 software and using t- test and linear regression tests. Statistical significant level was considered at P<0.05.

Results:Of the 235 participants, 141 (60%) were female. Mean age of students was 23.85±5.36 years. Mean score of internet anxiety was 54.01±8.39 from 100. Based on anxiety severity, 57 ones (24.3%) were in normal range 176 ones (74.9%) had mild anxiety and 2 students (0.8%) had severe internet anxiety. There was significant correlation between the mean score of internet anxiety and year of education and hours of using internet (P=0.028, P=0.017 respectively).

Conclusion:In regard to the necessity of using Internet in education, holding educational programs for safe Internet use and preventing Internet anxiety are recommended.

Key­words:Internet anxiety, Dental School, Students

Citation:Montajab F, Torabi M, KarimiAfshar H.The Rate of Internet Anxiety among Kerman Dentistry School Students.

Journal of Health Based Research 2016; 1(3): 231-240.