Aggression and Social Media Addiction: Digital Platforms and their Effect on University Students

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between social media addiction (SMA) and aggressive attitudes among Pakistani university students. As digital platforms become increasingly embedded in student life, understanding their psychological impacts is crucial, particularly in Pakistan, where research on this topic remains limited. Using a qualitative, cross-sectional design, data were collected from 310 students (aged 17-28) across universities in Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Three validated scales were employed: The Social Media Addiction Scale-Student Form (SMAS-SF) and the Aggression Scale. The study implemented rigorous sampling to ensure diverse representation while maintaining ethical standards. The foundations of the study were guided by Social Learning Theory and the General Aggression Model. The research aimed to assess the prevalence of social media addiction, to analyze its correlation with aggression or aggressive attitudes, and to explore gender differences in the manifestation of social media addiction and aggressive attitudes. Methodological care included cultural adaptation of instruments, pilot testing, and advanced statistical analyses controlling for socioeconomic and academic factors. The findings offer valuable insights for developing culturally appropriate interventions to promote healthier digital habits among students. The study bridges important research gaps while providing a foundation for future longitudinal investigations into these behavioral dynamics.