International Journal of Nutrition Sciences

International Journal of Nutrition Sciences

Health Responsibility as Mediators between Digital Addiction and Health Behaviors-related Nutrition among Secondary School Female Students in Karbala, Iraq

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Yousra Fareeq Abd Aleankushiu 1
Mohammed Malih Radhi 2
1 Community Health Technologies/ College of Health and Medical Techniques-Kufa, Al-Furat Al-Awsat Technical University, Iraq
2 Community Health Nursing, College of Health and Medical Techniques-Kufa, Al-Furat Al-Awsat Technical University, Iraq
10.30476/ijns.2026.106199.1430
Abstract
Background: Digital addiction, characterized by excessive interaction with digital devices, poses risks to adolescents’ health behaviors, especially nutrition-related habits. This study aimed to investigate the mediating role of health responsibility in relation to digital addiction and nutrition-related health behaviors among secondary school female
students in Karbala, Iraq.
Methods: A descriptive correlational study was conducted in Karbala, Iraq, including 368 female students from 13 schools who were selected through simple and systematic random sampling methods. Data collection used a structured questionnaire consisted of sections on demographic characteristics, digital addiction, health behaviors related to nutrition, and health responsibility. Reliability and analysis were confirmed by a pilot study (Cronbach’s alpha=0.85).
Results: Moderate level of digital addiction (53.5%), health responsibility (55.2%), and healthy behaviors related to nutrition (73.6%) were observed. Regression analysis revealed that health responsibility could negatively predict digital addictive behaviors (β=-0.143, p=0.006) and positively influenced nutrition-related health behaviors (β=0.585, p=0.000).
Conclusion: This study provided empirical evidences to support the promotion of health responsibility as a preventive measure for digital addiction and the promotion of healthy eating behaviors. There is a need
to promote health responsibility through targeted educational programs, parent engagement, and awareness campaigns that address digital addiction and nutrition.

Highlights

Mohammed Malih Radhi (Google Scholar)

Keywords
Digital Addiction
Health responsibility
Health behaviors
Nutrition
Adolescents
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