O uso problemático da internet, autoestima e qualidade de sono

: um estudo com jovens adultos

Abstract

Problematic internet use has been associated with several emotional, psychological and social difficulties, and can negatively impact and compromise wellbeing and quality of life. Thus, this study has the general objective of investigating the relationship between problematic internet use, self-esteem and sleep quality in young adults. This is a quantitative, cross-sectional and non-probabilistic study for convenience, with a sample of 165 participants. Inclusion criteria included being between 18 and 29 years old. A protocol with a self-report instrument was used, disseminated through an online platform, and the data were subsequently statistically analyzed using the SPSS program. To measure the variables of this study, the Generalized Problematic Internet Use Scale (EUPGI) was used to assess problematic internet use, the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) to assess self-esteem and the Basic Insomnia Symptom and Sleep Quality Scale (BaSIQS) to assess sleep quality. The results indicate that greater problematic Internet use is associated with lower sleep quality and lower levels of self-esteem. There were negative correlations between selfesteem and almost all dimensions of problematic Internet use, except for mood regulation. No significant differences were found according to gender, but it was observed that younger participants tended to present higher levels of problematic Internet use. It is concluded that problematic Internet use can negatively affect sleep and self-esteem in young adults, highlighting the need for preventive strategies that minimize dysfunctional behaviors.

Date of Award	24 Sept 2025
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Paulo César Dias (Supervisor)