DIGITAL MEDIA ADDICTION AS A SOCIAL PHENOMENON OF MODERN SOCIETY

Abstract

Contemporary society is characterized by the intensive use of digital media, which increasingly influence the everyday functioning of individuals and social groups. Although we are aware that the use of digital technologies offers numerous advantages in the fields of communication, education, and information, their excessive and uncontrolled use can lead to the emergence of digital addiction as a significant social problem. The aim of this paper is to analyze digital media addiction as a social phenomenon of modern society, with particular emphasis on its prevalence, forms of manifestation, and the perception of the consequences of excessive digital media use among individuals. The empirical research was conducted on a sample of 105 respondents of different genders, ages, and levels of education. The study analyzed respondents’ attitudes toward the time spent on digital media, habits of using the internet, social networks, and mobile devices, as well as perceptions of the impact of digital media on social relationships, work and academic efficiency, and psychosocial well-being. The research results indicate that a significant proportion of respondents exhibit elements of problematic digital media use, with excessive use of social networks and smartphones identified as the most common forms. Respondents recognize the negative consequences of digital addiction, particularly in the domains of interpersonal relationships, concentration, and time management. The findings confirm that digital addiction represents a complex social phenomenon that requires an interdisciplinary approach and systematic preventive measures.