Online Connection Versus Relational Disconnection: An Exploration of the Impact of Internet Addiction on Couple Burnout in Pakistan

Abstract

With the rapid proliferation of digital technologies, the concept of Internet addiction has emerged as significant attention, particularly in how it affects interpersonal relationships. Excessive internet usage can result in phubbing behavior and couple burnout. To investigate the connection between internet addiction, partner phubbing, and couple burnout, a correlational research design was utilized. An overall sum of 437 respondents from 18 to 40 years of age were selected for the study using a non-probability purposive sampling method from a culturally distinct region of Pakistan. Data was collected using self-administered measurement tools to measure the specified variables, including the Internet Addiction Test, Partner Phubbing Scale, and Couple Burnout Measure. The findings indicate A substantial association between internet addiction, partner phubbing, and couple burnout. Respondents with elevated internet addiction also exhibited elevated partner phubbing and couple burnout. Partner Phubbing acts as a partial mediator between Internet addiction and couple burnout. By exploring interconnections between these variables, the study aims to offer an exhaustive understanding of couples' difficulties in the digitalization age. The findings aim to inform interventions to help mitigate the undesirable outcomes of Internet addiction and phubbing on marital relationships, particularly in regions where traditional values and digital influences intersect.