RESUMO
OBJECTIVE: Aim: The aim is to study the motivation of students towards Internet dependent behavior and develop practical recommendations for improving a set of measures for its prevention. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: The research involved 154 students of the National Academy of Internal Affairs. Research methods: analysis and generalization of literature sources, questionnaire, statistical methods. RESULTS: Results: The priority motives of students who manifest Internet dependence behavior were identif i ed. The motivational orientations of students determine their systematic stay in the virtual environment and include, first of all, compliance with modern world trends; accessibility of content; the need for recognition of personal results by other users; satisfaction with virtual communication with the social environment. CONCLUSION: Conclusions: The practical recommendations for improving a set of measures to counteract the spread of Internet dependence among students were developed. Overcoming Internet dependence involves influencing a person to change his or her motivational and value as well as communication spheres. Prevention of Internet dependence involves public health professionals conducting awareness-raising as well as psychological and correctional work with the most vulnerable categories of people.