Technopathies among Higher Education Students in El Salvador

Abstract

This study aimed to identify technopathies among higher education students in El Salvador, understood as physical, mental, and social health conditions resulting from the improper use of the Internet and electronic devices. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including surveys administered to students from the four faculties at the Santa Ana campus and interviews conducted with psychology and medical professionals from the teaching staff of the Catholic University of El Salvador (UNICAES).

The research findings revealed several physical health problems associated with excessive use and dependence on the Internet and electronic devices, including insomnia, neck and back pain, and visual impairments.

The main mental health issues identified were phantom vibration syndrome, the Google effect, anxiety, stress, irritability, emotional instability, and depression. The principal social alterations included social isolation and misrepresenting the actual amount of time spent online or playing video games.