A Study on Digital Wellbeing Among College-Going Youth in Tirupati City: The Role of Smartphone Usage, Self-Control and Digital Habits

Abstract

Digital technology has become an integral part of young people's daily lives, influencing communication, education, entertainment, social interaction, and consumption behaviour. The increasing dependence on smartphones and digital platforms has created both opportunities and challenges for maintaining a healthy balance between online and offline activities. In this context, digital wellbeing has emerged as an important area of research. The present study, titled “Understanding Digital Wellbeing Among Youth: The Role of Smartphone Usage, Self-Control and Digital Habits,” aims to examine the relationship between smartphone usage, digital habits, self-control, and digital wellbeing among youth. The study focuses on understanding how the frequency and nature of smartphone use and everyday digital habits influence individuals' ability to maintain a balanced and healthy digital lifestyle. It also examines the role of self-control in managing digital technology use and promoting positive digital wellbeing. The study adopts a quantitative research approach and proposes the collection of primary data from youth through a structured questionnaire. Smartphone usage, digital habits, self-control, and digital wellbeing are measured using a five-point Likert scale. Descriptive statistics, reliability analysis, correlation, and regression analysis may be employed to examine the relationships among the study variables. The study is expected to provide useful insights for young consumers, educational institutions, parents, and digital platform stakeholders in promoting responsible technology use and healthier digital habits. The findings may contribute to the growing body of research on digital wellbeing and provide a basis for developing strategies that encourage balanced, mindful, and self-regulated digital engagement among youth.