Digital Dilemma in Teacher Training: Digital Well-Being and Internet Addiction

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between teacher candidates' perceptions of digital well-being and internet addiction. With the widespread use of digital technologies, their negative effects on mental health are becoming increasingly significant. The study involved 146 teacher candidates from a state university in Turkey's Eastern Anatolia Region. Data were collected using the Digital Well-being Scale and the Internet Addiction Scale. Results show that teacher candidates generally have a medium-high level of digital well-being. Perceptions of digital well-being do not vary significantly based on factors like gender, place of residence, or where they access the internet. However, they are related to factors such as extracurricular activities and the frequency of online shopping. Internet addiction levels notably increase with internet use for entertainment, though no significant relationship was found between daily internet use and digital well-being. The study highlights the importance of developing digital literacy and self-control skills to protect digital well-being and prevent internet addiction. Educational institutions should implement strategies to support prospective teachers' digital well-being and raise awareness on this issue. Future research is recommended to explore the relationship between digital literacy and internet addiction further.