Previously submitted to: JMIR Mental Health (no longer under consideration since Oct 31, 2025)
Date Submitted: Oct 31, 2025
Open Peer Review Period: Oct 31, 2025 - Oct 31, 2025
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Digital Friction and Psychological Distress among Distance Learners in Nigeria: A National Study of Platform Usability and Mental Health
ABSTRACT
Background:
Rapid digital expansion in higher education has increased dependence on online platforms, yet unstable connectivity, suboptimal usability, and limited virtual interaction can create digital friction that negatively affects mental health. These challenges are amplified in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), yet empirical evidence from African tertiary systems remains scarce.
Objective:
To assess associations between digital friction, psychological distress, and quality of life (QoL) among distance learners in Nigeria.
Methods:
A national web-based cross-sectional survey was conducted among students of the National Open University of Nigeria (1–30 September 2022). Psychological distress was measured using DASS-21, and QoL with WHOQOL-BREF. Digital friction was defined as dissatisfaction with platform usability and internet reliability. Multivariable logistic and linear regression models estimated adjusted odds ratios (AORs) and β-coefficients controlling for sociodemographic and academic factors. Data and code are publicly available (Zenodo DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17050575).
Results:
Among 4,612 respondents (67% women; median age 29 years), high digital friction was associated with higher odds of anxiety (AOR 2.87, 95% CI 2.49–3.31), stress (AOR 2.63, 95% CI 2.27–3.04), and depression (AOR 2.42, 95% CI 2.07–2.83), and lower QoL across domains (p<.001). Effects were stronger among women and unemployed learners.
Conclusions:
Digital friction is a modifiable determinant of psychological distress and reduced QoL in LMIC online-learning environments. Improving platform usability, internet reliability, and virtual social connectedness may enhance mental-health outcomes among distance learners. Clinical Trial: Not Applicable
Citation
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