Personality Traits and Internet Addiction: A Study Among University Students in Ghana

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between personality traits and internet addiction among university students in Ghana, specifically targeting participants from the University of Cape Coast (UCC) and the University of Ghana, Legon (UG). A total of 205 students were surveyed, chosen via a convenience sampling method to guarantee diversity. Data were gathered by a structured online questionnaire that included demographic information, the Big Five Inventory (BFI-10), and Young’s (1998) Internet Addiction Test (IAT). Data analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS, v.26), using descriptive statistics, multiple linear regression, independent samples t-test, and the Hayes Process Macro (Model 1) to evaluate moderation effects. The findings indicated that the majority of Ghanaian university students displayed mild internet addiction, with social networking identified as the predominant online activity. Among the Big Five personality qualities, openness and conscientiousness negatively predicted internet addiction, although extraversion exhibited a positive relationship. Agreeableness and neuroticism were not significant predictors. Moreover, the analysis revealed no substantial sex disparities in internet addiction. The hours spent online significantly regulated the association between conscientiousness, agreeableness, neuroticism, and internet addiction, but did not moderate the effects of openness and extraversion. The study suggests that internet addiction among Ghanaian university students is a common yet relatively minor issue, shaped by personality factors and behavioural involvement. The implications for policy are discussed, and recommendations are made to enhance personality-sensitive digital wellness initiatives.