DEMOGRAPHIC DETERMINANTS OF DIGITAL WELL-BEING AMONG NIGERIAN LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE STUDENTS

Abstract

This study explores the demographic determinants of digital well-being among Library and Information Science (LIS) students in Nigeria, a population increasingly reliant on digital tools for academic, professional, and social engagement. Digital well-being, defined as the optimal state of health and safety in digital environments, is critical for LIS students who interact regularly with electronic resources, learning management systems, and online communication platforms. Despite their digital exposure, LIS students face unique challenges that affect their digital health, including screen fatigue, anxiety, and unequal access to digital infrastructure. The paper identifies five key demographic factors which are age, gender, socioeconomic status, level of study, and geographical location that significantly influence students' digital experiences. While younger students exhibit higher digital fluency, they are also more vulnerable to distractions and mental strain. Female students often report higher instances of online harassment but may also adopt more structured digital hygiene habits. Students from low-income backgrounds and rural areas face persistent digital exclusion due to limited access to personal devices, reliable internet, and institutional support systems. The study highlights major challenges, including the lack of digital wellness training, high internet costs, and mental health stigma. In response, it proposes practical recommendations such as establishing digital counseling units in university libraries, conducting regular well-being assessments, and developing national policy frameworks that promote digital equity. The article concludes that LIS education must evolve to prioritize students' digital health alongside technical competencies, ensuring that graduates are not only information literate but also resilient, mindful, and capable of thriving in digitally intensive environments.