A Study to Assess the Impact of WhatsApp Addiction on Academic Performance Among Nursing Students in Selected Nursing Colleges.
  • Author(s): Chaitanya Vanave; Prajwal Vyavhare; Niketan Unde; Janmanjay Tarde; Rahul Umbarkar; Kunal Unde; Rushikesh Varpe; Akshay Varkhedkar; Aniket Tupe; Nileshwari Tanpure; Supriya Hapse
  • Paper ID: 1715936
  • Page: 3840-3842
  • Published Date: 04-05-2026
  • Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
  • Publisher: IRE Journals
  • e-ISSN: 2456-8880
  • Volume/Issue: Volume 9 Issue 10 April-2026
Abstract

The widespread use of smartphones and social networking applications has significantly influenced students’ learning behaviours and lifestyle. WhatsApp, one of the most commonly used instant messaging applications, is widely utilized by nursing students for academic communication as well as social interaction. Although WhatsApp facilitates information sharing and peer learning, excessive and uncontrolled use may lead to addictive behaviour, causing distraction, poor time management, and reduced academic engagement. Nursing students, due to the demanding nature of their academic and clinical responsibilities, may be particularly vulnerable to the negative impact of WhatsApp addiction on academic performance. Hence, assessing the impact of WhatsApp addiction on academic performance among nursing students is essential. Materials and Methods A descriptive correlational research design with a quantitative approach was adopted for the study. The study was conducted at Seva Nursing College, Shrirampur. A total of 60 nursing students were selected using a non-probability purposive sampling technique. Data were collected using three sections: a socio-demographic questionnaire, the WhatsApp Addiction Scale (WAS), and a Standardized Academic Performance Scale (APS). The tool was validated by experts, and reliability was established using the split-half method (r = 0.8). Data were analysed using descriptive statistics such as frequency and percentage. Results The findings revealed that the majority of nursing students (53%) had a moderate level of WhatsApp addiction, while 43% had a low level of addiction and 4% exhibited high addiction. None of the students showed severe addiction. Regarding academic performance, 65% of students demonstrated good academic performance, while 35% showed average performance, with no students falling under poor academic performance. Although most students maintained satisfactory academic outcomes, moderate levels of WhatsApp addiction were prevalent among a considerable proportion of students. Conclusion The study concludes that WhatsApp addiction exists among nursing students predominantly at a low to moderate level. While most students demonstrated good academic performance, the presence of moderate addiction indicates a potential risk for academic distraction and long-term academic and professional consequences. Controlled and purposeful use of WhatsApp can support academic activities; however, excessive use may negatively influence concentration and time management. The study highlights the need for awareness programs, digital wellness education, and counselling interventions to promote healthy WhatsApp usage and enhance academic performance among nursing students.

Keywords

WhatsApp Addiction, Academic Performance, Nursing Students, Smartphone Usage, Social Media Addiction

Citations

IRE Journals:
Chaitanya Vanave, Prajwal Vyavhare; Niketan Unde, Janmanjay Tarde; Rahul Umbarkar, Kunal Unde; Rushikesh Varpe; Akshay Varkhedkar, Aniket Tupe; Nileshwari Tanpure; Supriya Hapse "A Study to Assess the Impact of WhatsApp Addiction on Academic Performance Among Nursing Students in Selected Nursing Colleges." Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 9 Issue 10 2026 Page 3840-3842 https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV9I10-1715936

IEEE:
Chaitanya Vanave, Prajwal Vyavhare; Niketan Unde, Janmanjay Tarde; Rahul Umbarkar, Kunal Unde; Rushikesh Varpe; Akshay Varkhedkar, Aniket Tupe; Nileshwari Tanpure; Supriya Hapse "A Study to Assess the Impact of WhatsApp Addiction on Academic Performance Among Nursing Students in Selected Nursing Colleges." Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 9(10) https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV9I10-1715936