A Philosophical Inquiry into Emotional Intelligence and Internet Addiction in Youth and Adults

Md Najmul Hasan Ariz

Abstract: The proliferation of digital technologies has catalyzed the emergence of problematic behaviors, notably Internet Addiction (IA), particularly among youth and young adults who navigate a life increasingly interwoven with the virtual realm. This philosophical inquiry analyzes the inverse relationship between Emotional Intelligence (EI) and IA, drawing upon correlational research conducted across diverse student and adult populations. Internet Addiction is conceptually examined as a disruption of impulse control and a behavioral dependency marked by excessive preoccupation and failure to regulate usage, often resulting in significant social, psychological, and occupational distress. Emotional Intelligence, defined as the intricate capacity for self-awareness, emotion regulation, and social skill, is posited as a critical protective factor against IA. Empirical findings consistently demonstrate a statistically significant negative correlation between EI and IA across multiple studies, suggesting that greater emotional self-mastery reduces susceptibility to digital dependency. Furthermore, analysis reveals systematic variations by demographic factors, with males and younger individuals typically exhibiting higher IA and lower EI scores. This synthesis argues that fostering robust EI, especially focusing on emotion regulation and interpersonal skills, is essential for mitigating the pervasive health risks associated with IA and promoting individual well-being in the contemporary digital society.

Keywords: Internet addiction, emotional intelligence, digital behavior, youth mental health, emotion regulation

How to Cite?: Md Najmul Hasan Ariz, "A Philosophical Inquiry into Emotional Intelligence and Internet Addiction in Youth and Adults", Volume 14 Issue 12, December 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1451-1454, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=MR251217194627, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/MR251217194627