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‘Internet Addiction’: A Critical Review
Abstract
It has been alleged by some academics that excessive Internet use can be pathological and addictive. This paper reviews what
is known from the empirical literature on ‘Internet addiction’ and its derivatives (e.g., Internet Addiction Disorder, Pathological
Internet Use, etc.) and assesses to what extent it exists. Empirical research into ‘Internet addiction’ can roughly be divided
into five areas: (1) survey studies that compare excessive Internet users with non-excessive users, (2) survey studies that
have examined vulnerable groups of excessive Internet use, most notably students, (3) studies that examine the psychometric
properties of excessive Internet use, (4) case studies of excessive Internet users and treatment case studies, and (5) correlational
studies examining the relationship of excessive Internet use with other behaviours (e.g., psychiatric problems, depression,
self-esteem, etc.). Each of these areas is reviewed. It is concluded that if ‘Internet addiction’ does indeed exist, it affects
a relatively small percentage of the online population. However, exactly what it is on the Internet that they are addicted
to still remains unclear.
... With reference to the use of internet there is a variation in gender. Though a significant number of studies state that boys are more prone to internet addicted (Akhter, 2013;Chou et al., 2005;Morhan-Martin & Schumacher, 2000;Yang & Tung, 2007;Simos et al., 2008;Widyanto & Griffiths, 2006) but others have supported to girls (Igarashi et al., 2005;Shahrestanaki et al., 2020) and some said that there is no difference in gender (Preza et al., 2004;Chung, 2011). Instead of these inconsistencies in gender, most of the researchers of India have documented that boys are more internet addicted (Kumari et al., 2021;Bhat & Kawa, 2015;Goel et al., 2013;Jain et al., 2020;Sinha et al., 2018). ...
... As the mean score of boys is higher than girls, so, it can be said that boys are more internet addicted than girls. This result is consistent with previous studies (Akhter, 2013;Chou et al., 2005;Morhan-Martin & Schumacher, 2000;Yang & Tung, 2007;Simos et al., 2008;Widyanto & Griffiths, 2006). ...
This study has an aim to investigate the relationship between internet addiction and academic performance of university students. For this purpose, 267 undergraduate students were selected from different colleges affiliated with Sambalpur University. Internet addiction scale developed by Young (1998) was used to collect the data from the sample. The results of this study revealed that on an average 47.65 university students are internet addicted irrespective of their gender, streams of education and habitat. This study also revealed that academic performance of university students can be significantly predicted by internet addiction as the R 2 =.034 (3.4%). Gender and habitat were not significant predictors of internet addiction, but streams of education were significant predictors of internet addiction. With reference to gender and streams of education there is significant difference but with reference to habitat or residence there is no significant difference. There is also no significant difference in internet addiction due to the interaction between gender and streams of education, gender and habitat, streams of education and habitat, and among gender, streams of education and habitat.
... Greater emotional disturbance symptoms have been documented by those with more severe social media addiction (Wong et al., 2020). Problematic Internet use or addiction has psychological repercussions because its symptoms resemble those of low self-esteem, hostility, anxiety, depression, and disinhibition (Widyanto & Griffiths, 2006). According to Zivnuska et al. (2019), burnout can be a consequence of excessive social media usage, which not only affects job performance but also has a financial burden. ...
... Visually distinguishing individuals who participate in the act of phubbing is easier than it is to determine if they are or feel addicted to social media. Therefore, university counseling centers can ask students who feel they are using these platforms excessively if they participate disproportionately or in an exaggerated fashion in phubbing and discuss the negative effect of phubbing and excessive use of the Internet and social media on relationships, life satisfaction, and its relationship with disinhibition, anxiety, feelings of melancholy, and anger (Widyanto & Griffiths, 2006). Students can ask their friends for feedback on their own behavior regarding phubbing. ...
Due to its increasing importance in our lives, it is crucial to gain a comprehensive understanding of social media. This study contributes to the existing literature by examining data from the Gulf region in the Middle East. The study focuses on self-esteem, phubbing, area of study, and how students perceive themselves in terms of social media addiction. Hierarchical regression analysis was employed to examine the role of self-esteem, phubbing, and area of study (Science, Engineering, Social Science) in predicting perceived social media addiction, following an exploratory analysis. The results indicate that both phubbing and area of study were significant predictors of reported social media addiction. Specifically, compared to students with science majors, those with engineering and social science majors reported being 10% and 13% more addicted to social media, respectively. Additionally, students who reported engaging in phubbing rarely, sometimes, often, or always perceived themselves as being 10%, 19%, 26%, and 33% more addicted to social media, respectively, compared to those who reported never engaging in phubbing.
... The internet has become an integral part of modern-day life, and the global population using the internet has grown to almost 3.8 billion (Tripathi 2017). Over the past few years, the study of the correlation between excessive internet use and mental disorders has advanced (Widyanto and Griffiths 2006). ...
... Thus, IA is psychological reliance on the internet, regardless of the type of activities pursued after logging in (Kim et.al 2019). IA leads to an impairment of various life functions (Widyanto and Griffiths (2006). Internet gaming disorder (IGD) is a consequence of IA, which is defined as uncontrolled internet gaming activity with negative impacts on psychosocial functions (Ko et al., 2014). ...
Internet addiction is a relatively new phenomenon which can have similar impacts as substance dependence on one’s cognitive and behavioral functioning. This type of addiction is a growing problem, and is constantly being researched to try to address what causes this addiction, who is affected by it, and how it can be treated. It has been observed throughout the study that there is a significant correlation between Internet Addiction and mental health. The extant literature shows that excessive use of Internet leads to significant effect on mental health. One hundred and thirty youth were taken to complete the study. The main aim of the study was to examine how Internet Addiction affects mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic.
... Internet addiction disorder (IAD) is defined as any online-related, compulsive behavior which interferes with healthy living and completely dominates the addict's life (Block, 2008). Young in 1999 was classified the 'broad' term of Internet addiction to subgroups of addiction to "cybersex," "cyber relationships," "net compulsions," "information and research," and "computer gaming" (Widyanto & Griffiths, 2006). Griffiths presented six common criteria of Internet addiction: salience, mood modification, tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, conflict and relapse. ...
... IAT evaluates generalized Internet addiction (general use and impact of the Internet), not addiction on a particular online feature such as gambling, watching pornographic, or social networks usage. According to Widyanto and Mc-Murran, a score less than 40 and between 40 and 69 represent normal use of the Internet and occasional problems respectively, and a score of 70 and higher represents Internet addiction (Griffiths, 2000;Widyanto & Griffiths, 2006). ...
Background
Internet addiction disorder (IAD) is listed as a disorder requiring further studies in the diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (DSM-V). Psychological studies showed significant co-morbidity of IAD with depression, alcohol abuse, and anxiety disorder. Etiology and genetic bases of IAD are unclear.
Aims
Present study aimed to investigate the genetic, psychological, and cognitive bases of a tendency to internet addiction.
Methods and procedures
DNA was extracted from blood samples of IADs (N = 16,520) and 18,000 matched non-psychiatric subjects. Genotyping for the subjects was performed using SNP Array. Psychological, neuropsychological, and neurological characteristics were conducted.
Outcomes and results
Seventy-two SNPs in 24 genes have been detected significantly associated with IAD. Most of these SNPs were risk factors for psychiatric disorders. Most similarity detected with autism spectrum disorder, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Higher anxiety, stress, and neuroticism and deficits in working memory, attention, planning, and processing speed were detected in IADs.
Conclusions
This study is the first genome-wide association study of IAD that showed strong shared genetic bases with neurodevelopmental disabilities and psychiatric disorders.
Implications
Genetic risk factors in IADs may cause several cognitive and neurodevelopmental brain function abnormalities, which lead to excessive Internet usage. It may suggest that IAD could be a marker for vulnerability to developmental psychiatric disorders.
... Te emergence of Internet addiction (IA), a behavioural addiction marked by compulsive Internet use and signifcant functional impairments, is an escalating concern in both developed and developing countries, particularly among adolescents and young adults [1][2][3]. ...
Te global pandemic forced young adults and their parents to be together. Tis situation has equally exposed the weaknesses in the child-parent relationship. Tis study aimed to investigate the role of social intelligence in the relationship between parenting style and Internet addiction during the global COVID-19 pandemic. Seven hundred and seventy-four were sampled from a public university in southeast Nigeria. Tey comprised 373 females and 401 males aged 17-28 years, with a mean age of 21.61. Te students responded to validated measures of parenting style inventory-II, the Tromsø social intelligence scale, and Young's Internet addiction test. Te moderated multiple regression analysis results indicated that permissive parenting and social intelligence signifcantly predicted Internet addiction. Social intelligence moderated the relationship between authoritarian parenting style and Internet addiction. Te moderation was that Internet addiction is signifcantly higher for individuals with low social intelligence and authoritarian parenting style than individuals with low social intelligence and higher authoritarian parenting style. Some implications of the fndings include engaging parenting styles to encourage more physical interactions and enabling an environment for growth. Also, adopting techniques to increase social intelligence will help students adjust to any parenting style that may infuence their psychological well-being.
... Te emergence of Internet addiction (IA), a behavioural addiction marked by compulsive Internet use and signifcant functional impairments, is an escalating concern in both developed and developing countries, particularly among adolescents and young adults [1][2][3]. ...
The global pandemic forced young adults and their parents to be together. This situation has equally exposed the weaknesses in the child-parent relationship. This study aimed to investigate the role of social intelligence in the relationship between parenting style and Internet addiction during the global COVID-19 pandemic. Seven hundred and seventy-four were sampled from a public university in southeast Nigeria. They comprised 373 females and 401 males aged 17–28 years, with a mean age of 21.61. The students responded to validated measures of parenting style inventory-II, the Tromsø social intelligence scale, and Young’s Internet addiction test. The moderated multiple regression analysis results indicated that permissive parenting and social intelligence significantly predicted Internet addiction. Social intelligence moderated the relationship between authoritarian parenting style and Internet addiction. The moderation was that Internet addiction is significantly higher for individuals with low social intelligence and authoritarian parenting style than individuals with low social intelligence and higher authoritarian parenting style. Some implications of the findings include engaging parenting styles to encourage more physical interactions and enabling an environment for growth. Also, adopting techniques to increase social intelligence will help students adjust to any parenting style that may influence their psychological well-being.
... Bireyin yaşamına ve tutumuna göre televizyon, telefon, tablet, sosyal medya, Facebook, internet, YouTube ve oyun gibi alanlardan birine veya birden çoğuna gereğinden fazla zaman ayırma ekseninde gelişen, dijital teknolojilere odaklı tüm bağımlılık çeşitlerinin kendi içinde birtakım farklılıkları olsa da, birçok ortak nokta taşıdıkları bilinmektedir (Sigerson vd., 2017). Diğer yandan bağımlılık durumu, teknoloji bağımlılığı ve dijital bağımlılık başta olmak üzere çok çeşitli kavramlarla ifade edilmektedir (Widyanto & Griffiths, 2006). Çeşitli stratejilere dayalı olarak daha fazla kullanıcının teknolojiye veya teknolojik ürünlere daha fazla zaman ayırmasına yönelik çalışmalar da yürütülmektedir. ...
... In the present scenario, 5 scales which are being used most frequently in studies for diagnosing Internet addiction or problematic Internet use. [8][9] The most commonly used are the Internet Addiction Test (IAT) of the Young, Chen's Internet Addiction Scale (CIAS) and the Internet Addiction Scale (IAS). The Internet Addiction Test (IAT) was created by Young to evaluate the existence and intensity of internet addiction in an American population sample. ...
Background: Internet addiction is found to be a growing global problem and India is not exceptional. Adolescents are more over addicted to internet and suffering with mental confusions and deviation in behaviour. Several instruments have been developed for assessment of Internet addiction. Internet Addiction Test (IAT) is the most widely used tool to assess internet addiction, but psychometric properties of the IAT have not yet been examined in the Indian adolescence. The aim was to examine the validity and reliability of the 20-item Internet Addiction Test in Indian School Students. Methodology: Seven hundred fifty-two students from a CBSE school of Raipur, India was randomly selected in our study. The reliability and validity of IAT was examined. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to examine the structural validity of IAT. Results: It was found that the factor loading of the IAT varied between 0.40 and 0.82. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient for the scale was found to be 905. The total correlations were calculated and had a value range from 0.406 to 0.659 for the 20 items. The psychometric properties indicate that the factor loading reveal that the test revolve around six factors (Salience, Excessive Use, Neglected Work, Anticipation, Lack of Control, and Neglected Social Life). The Cronbach’s alpha is high for all the 6 components. IAT is a proper tool for evaluating internet addiction in Indian school students. Conclusions: The findings obtained in this study indicate that overall, IAT has adequate psychometric properties for the assessment of internet addiction in Indian school students.
... Research shows that most users are not apprehensive about the likelihood of being a target of a scam or fraud as a result of their digital presence (Blank et al., 2019). Internet or digital addiction, including gaming and smartphone addiction (Almourad et al., 2020;Widyanto & Griffiths, 2006), as well as other issues such as aimless surfing leading to digital overuse and impulsive digital behaviors may be too compelling (Montag & Walla, 2016). Owing to this, users might downplay the risks associated with digital usage (Aboujaoude & Gega, 2021). ...
This study investigates how users perceive their wellbeing amid the risks associated with digital media use in Norway. According to the literature, some of these risks include digital dependence, online privacy, scams, thefts, information misuse, and harassment. To expand knowledge on how these and other digital risks are construed by users, this study addresses the following research questions: What implications do digital risks have on users’ perceived sense of wellbeing? What are the solutions proposed by users to manage these risks? Methodologically, the inquiry is led through a qualitative approach comprising 17 semi-structured in-depth interviews of university students in Norway. The investigation centers on an interpretative phenomenological analysis. This study contributes to the existing literature by empirically evaluating the notion of digital wellbeing in the everyday choices of university students, thereby comprehending their safety concerns and how they manage online risks while exploring solutions to combat the risks of digital usage. The study adds value to the present literature on digital wellbeing by juxtaposing digital risks with the construct of wellbeing in digitalized societies.
... Technological addictions are within the scope of behavioral addictions and thus include the basic constructs of addiction (i.e., attention, mood change, tolerance, withdrawal, conflict, and relapse) (Griffiths & Widyanto, 2006). Today, besides substance addiction, addiction to new technology and communication tools has become a fundamental problem with the advancement of technology. ...
This study aims to determine the relationship between primary school students' technology addiction levels and their participation in sports. For this purpose, in this study, technology addiction and sports participation levels of students studying in different primary schools in Almaty were examined according to their demographic characteristics. The study was conducted with the comparative correlational screening method, one of the general screening methods. The study sample consists of 252 private and public primary school students. "Technology Addiction Scale" and "Sport Participation Questionnaire" were used as data collection tools in the study. The data obtained from the study are expressed as mean and standard deviation (SD) values. T-tests from parametric tests and Pearson Product Moments Correlation technique analyses were used in the data analysis. The findings obtained from the study showed that primary school student's participation in sports is moderate, while their technological addiction is high. While the participation of primary school students in sports did not differ according to the gender variable, significant differences were observed in their technological addictions. Similarly, students' technological addictions differ according to their school types. Finally, a significant but negative relationship was found between primary school students' sports participation and technological addiction. It was observed that the technological addiction of the participants decreased as their participation in sports increased.
... Over the last two decades, several labels have been used to describe Internet overuse, such as Internet addiction [9][10][11], problematic Internet use [12], and pathological Internet use [13], thus reflecting the lack of scientific consensus on how this phenomenon should be theoretically defined, operationalized, and measured [14,15]. Indeed, only Internet Gaming Disorder has been included in Section III of the 5th edition of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder (DSM-5) among the conditions requiring further investigation and clinical-empirical research [16]. ...
Introduction:
Digital screen media use has significantly grown in all age groups and at an increasingly young age, including toddlers, schoolers, and primary school children. Although there is evidence that excessive early childhood media exposure can lead to several negative developmental outcomes, no systematic review on Problematic Media Use (PMU) of children under 10 years old have been provided. The aim of the present systematic review was to identify (i) the main instruments used to measure children's PMU across different studies; (ii) the risk and protective factors which might increase or reduce children's PMU; and (iii) the negative outcomes associated with children's PMU.
Methods:
This study was conducted following the systematic review guidelines proposed in the PRISMA statement. A total of 35 studies published between 2012-2022 and with a mean sample age between 0 and 10 years old were ultimately included in this literature review.
Results:
Use of media for more than 2 h a day, male gender, and higher age increased the risk of developing PMU among children. PMU led to several negative consequences for children's development and well-being (e.g., more problematic behaviors, sleep problems, higher depressive symptoms, lower emotional intelligence, and lower academic achievements). Children who experienced negative psychological symptoms, a dysfunctional parent-child relationship, and difficulties in school context were more prone to develop PMU. However, an authoritative parenting style and restrictive parental mediation reduced the risk of developing PMU among children. Finally, self-report measures specifically designed to get the younger children's perspective are still few and not so widely used.
Conclusions:
Overall, this research field is still in its infancy and needs further investigation. Likely, a dysfunctional family system can lead children to experience emotional distress and negative psychological symptoms, which they try to manage by escaping into the virtual world, thus increasing the risk of developing PMU. As the children's PMU is closely affected by the family environment, future prevention interventions should target both children and their parents to improve their self-regulatory and mentalizing capabilities, as well as parental mediation strategies and general parenting practices.
... However, the Internet revolution had and has a significant impact also in terms of mental wellbeing, up to real cases in which its use may become a real abuse. Not surprisingly the abuse of Internet is dramatically emerging as a latest epidemic, as, similarly to SUD and other addictive behaviors, it may lead to significant impairment in work, social and relational activities (Beard & Wolf, 2001;Widyanto & Griffiths, 2006). The first recognition of this problem dates back to 1996 when a Newyorker psychiatrist labeled as "Internet addiction" the excessive use of Internet, accompanied by withdrawal symptoms and tolerance (Young, 1996). ...
Objective: Next to its well-known benefits, Internet may trigger harmful consequences due to its abuse, thus delineating clinical pictures that are similar to abuse disorders, such as Problematic Internet Use (PIU). The matter becomes more elusive for sportsmen, as data regarding PIU in this specific group are scarce, particularly for tennis players. Therefore, our aim was to assess the prevalence and the features of PIU in a sample of either in current activity or retired professional tennis players, as compared with healthy controls.
Method: Twenty-five professional tennis players were evaluated during two events held in two different European countries and were matched to an equal number of healthy subjects who were not performing any agonistic sport. The characteristics of Internet use were assessed by a specific instrument we developed (QUNT). Statistical analyses were carried out to evaluate both demographic and QUNT features and the possible intergroup differences.
Results: Retired athletes presented statistically significant lower scores compared to both athletes in current activity and control subjects in the “Time spent online” and in the “Addiction to pornography” domains. Athletes in current activity presented statistically significant higher scores compared to retired athletes in the “Ludopathy” and Total score domains. Male athletes had a statistically significant lower score in the “Addiction to pornography” domain compared to both female and male healthy controls.
Conclusions: Tennis players frequently indulge in the use of Internet facilities, particularly those in current activity, thus potentially being more vulnerable to PIU. Men and women seem to use Internet for different activities. The lifestyle that professional tennis players are obliged to follow might provide an explanation of our findings.
... Technology addiction, which is classified as a behavioral addiction, is defined as "non-chemical addictions that involve human-machine interactions" (Widyanto and Griffiths, 2006). Although recent attention has been drawn to addiction cases caused by the internet, and research in the literature has focused on the concept of internet addiction, the addictive nature of technological devices in general has been noticed, and these types of addictions are generally referred to as "technology addiction". ...
Advancing technology has become a vital aspect of daily life, but it also poses risks when used excessively or inappropriately. Studies have shown that overuse of technology can lead to various negative impacts on individuals, including biological, psychological, social, and spiritual harm, and can also lead to addiction. The issue of "technology addiction" is a growing concern that affects society and individuals similarly to substance addiction, but it is not yet fully defined. Efforts to address this addiction have been insufficient, and it is becoming increasingly prevalent among all age groups. This study examines the role of local governments in addressing technology addiction and looks at the BAYAMER social initiative of the Istanbul Küçükçekmece Municipality as an example. It has been observed that institutions such as BAYAMER give effective results in substance-related addictions, but do not give effective results in technology addiction. For this reason, it is thought that instead of institutions such as BAYAMER, which adopt the medical model, local governments should focus on more protective and preventive practices in the fight against technology addiction.
... While several researchers have criticized the term "internet addiction" for its narrowness in describing only risky behaviors displayed by internet users [13][14][15][16][17], other terms used in literature such as "excessive internet use," "pathological internet use" [18,19], "problematic interactive media use" [20], and "compulsive internet use" [21] allude to the same notion of addiction. In the context of screening, this has resulted in measuring the frequency and length of internet use and its behavioral consequences, but not how time is spent digitally. ...
Background:
Research on problematic internet use has largely adhered to addiction paradigms, possibly impeding the identification of specific internet behaviors related to psychopathology. This study presents a novel approach to screening for specific problematic internet behaviors by using a new measure, the emergency department media use screener (EDMUS).
Objective:
The purpose of this study was to identify patterns of internet use in young people presenting with mental health concerns to the emergency department (ED), ascertain associations with their mental health, and evaluate whether the EDMUS can be used to predict subsequent ED presentations within 3 months.
Methods:
This cross-sectional retrospective study of Australian young people (N=149, aged 11-25 years; female: n=92, 61.7%) sought to use the EDMUS, a 24-item questionnaire, to identify problematic internet behaviors, including accessing or posting prosuicidal or proeating disorder content, cyberbullying, and inappropriate digital content. Data on each person's mental health were extracted from electronic medical records to look for associations with EDMUS responses and ED re-presentation over 3 months. EDMUS items were grouped into clusters for analysis using chi-square tests, binary logistic regression, and path analyses.
Results:
Sharing suicidal digital content was the most common problematic internet use pattern identified by the EDMUS. However, this did not correlate with having a prior mental health diagnosis or predict readmission. Most participants had families with a concern for their internet use; however, this was less likely in participants with a diagnosis of personality disorder. Diagnoses of personality disorder or posttraumatic stress disorder were independent predictors of readmission (P=.003; P=.048).
Conclusions:
Although a history of complex psychopathology increases the likelihood of subsequent ED presentations, its links to internet use-related behaviors are still unclear. The EDMUS has potential for identifying young people who are most vulnerable to problematic internet behaviors and offers the opportunity for early intervention and potential prevention of more entrenched difficulties.
... Kanca (Hook) adı verilen bu yöntem, tetikleyici, aksiyon, ödül ve yatırım adımlarından oluşan bağımlılık yapın bir alışkanlık döngüsünü amaçlamaktadır (Widyanto ve Griffiths, 2006). Akıllı telefon bağımlılığı hakkında diğer bağımlılıklar kadar farkındalık gelişmemiş olsa da araştırmacılar ve kuruluşlar çeşitli yayınlar yaparak oluşabilecek zararları bildirmektedirler (Andrew-Gee, 2022;Çakır ve Demir, 2014). ...
Bu çalışma, üniversite öğrencilerin akıllı telefon kullanım durumlarını ve bağımlılık düzeylerini belirleyip ilişkili demografik değişkenleri ortaya çıkarmak amacıyla betimsel tarama desenine göre dizayn edilmiştir. Çalışma kapsamında kullanılan veri toplama araçları kişisel bilgi formu ve Akıllı Telefon Bağımlılığı Ölçeğidir. Araştırma kapsamında toplanan verilerin analizi SPSS 25 programı ile yapılmıştır. Üniversite öğrencilerinin akıllı telefon bağımlılık düzeyi orta düzeyde olduğu ve katılımcıların kendilerini bağımlı olarak gördükleri bulunmuştur. Katılımcıların Akıllı telefon bağımlılığı ölçek puanları ile yaş, gelir düzeyi ve ikamet yeri değişkenlerinin incelenmesi sonucunda aralarında önemli derecede anlamlı bir farklılık olmadığı saptanmıştır. Katılımcıların Akıllı telefon bağımlılık düzeyi ile cinsiyet, telefon kullanım gideri, internet kotası, telefonda geçirilen süre, günlük telefon kullanımı, gün içerisinde kullanım saatleri değişkeni arasında anlamlı bir farklılık olduğunu saptamıştır.
... It has evolved into a disease that requires treatment. The common symptoms are loss of control, preoccupation, withdrawal, orientation toward cyberspace to manage moods, and conflict or negative consequences [16][17][18]. ...
Addiction to smartphones, particularly among adolescents, has reached alarming proportions, rivaling or perhaps exceeding internet addiction as the most widespread kind of dependence in modern culture. Evaluating the degree of problematic smartphone use habits by experts and identifying the vulnerable ones to steer to the right treatment program has become a critical issue. Since such a task may involve an abundance of criteria and candidates, as well as the inherent subjectivity of multiple decision experts participating in the process, the assessment of smartphone addiction can be framed as an uncertain multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) problem. As an extension of intuitionistic fuzzy sets, Pythagorean fuzzy sets can be used to efficiently manage ambiguity and uncertainty during decision-making. This study provides an integrated fuzzy MCDM methodology based on Pythagorean fuzzy sets for evaluating the smartphone addiction level of adolescents. The Criteria Importance Through Inter-criteria Correlation (CRITIC) method is used to determine the importance levels of criteria in an objective manner, and smartphone addiction levels of the selected candidates are ranked using the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) approach. A sensitivity analysis is conducted to examine the variations in candidate rankings caused by changes to the criteria and weights of the decision experts. Moreover, in the context of comparative analysis, the Evaluation based on Distance from Average Solution (EDAS) approach is used to validate the acquired findings.
... In China, Wechat is the most widely used social networking platforms and was estimated to have almost 900 million monthly active users [2]. With the increasing availability and diversification of the social networking sites, recent clinical and research attention have begun to focus on the potentially addictive nature of online social networking [3,4]. Online Social Networking (OSN) addiction involves the problematic use of online social networking sites accompanied by an overall sense of lack of control as well as other addiction symptoms, such as higher tolerance, withdrawal experiences, and preoccupation [3]. ...
... Internet addiction is de ned as "inability to stop internet overuse, tendency to perceive o ine time as meaningless, excessive irritation and aggression during deprivation" and can be also described as internet dependence, pathological internet use or compulsive internet (4,5). It is a new and attractive subject considered as a behavior-based addiction in recent years(6). ...
Background: Internet addiction is characterized by excessive or poorly controlled preoccupation, urges or behavior regarding computer use and internet access that lead to impairment or distress. Globally, it has been found that the occurrence rate of internet addiction among university students ranges from 0.8% to 47.7%. Despite, there are multiple challenges that related with internet addiction which remains under-recognized and largely ignored by stakeholders and also not well known especially in low income countries including Ethiopia. Therefore, this study was conducted aimed to assess the magnitude of the internet addiction and its associated factors among undergraduate students.
Methods: Institutional based cross-sectional study was employed from May 1st to June 1st 2019. Multi-stage sampling technique was used to get a total of 846 undergraduate Students. Data was collected by using self-administered structured questionnaires of Young’s Internet Addiction Test. The collected data was coded and entered into EPIDATA 3.1 and analyzed by using SPSS version 22, Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify factors associated with internet addiction and statistically significant was considered at P-value <0.05.
Results: A total of 846 study participants, giving a response rate were 761 (90%) and the prevalence of internet addiction was 19.4%. Multiple logistic regression model revealed that being male [AOR=1.69, 95% CI: (1.80, 6.41)], probable depression [AOR =3.61, 95% CI (2.40, 5.43)] and khat or caffeinated drinks [AOR=1.86, 95%CI: (1.21, 2.87)] were significantly associated with internet addiction.
Conclusion: This study revealed that a high prevalence of internet addiction among Dilla university students and there were various factors associated with increased prevalence of problematic internet use. Therefore, students need to be educated about safe, valuable, and healthy practice of internet use and better to counsel on substance use and its consequences and also psychiatric evaluation (referring for mental health services) to overcome the anticipated increase in internet addiction
... According to Murali and George (2007) internet over usage is known as internet addiction and could be described as maladaptive cognitions and behaviors. The thoughts and cognitions of an individual are the basic cause of unfamiliar behavior (Widyanto & Griffiths, 2006). Internet addiction is a type of behavior that has been considered as a mental health problem that increases aggression on one hand while decreases the eating habits, sleep and somatic activities on the other hand, over a long period of time (Lam, 2014;Vandelanotte et al., 2009). ...
The current study aimed to find out relationship between internet addiction, aggression and family relations in university students. Moreover, the study also examined the mediating role of family relations between internet addiction and aggression among university students. The University students were recruited as sample as researchers have found that majority of young adults use internet as time pass and become addicted but they are not aware of the addition (Hassan et al., 2020). Cross-sectional survey research design was used and data was collected through purposive sampling technique using Internet Addiction Test (Young, 1998), Aggression Questionnaire (Buss & Perry, 1992) and Index of Family Relations (Hudson, 1992). In addition, gender differences were also studied. Sample comprised of 300 students between the age of 18 and 35 years (M = 29.09, SD = 11.32). Bivariate correlation matrix revealed that internet addiction had significant positive relationship with aggression (r = 0.88, p < 0.01) and significant negative relationship with family relations (r = -0.86, p < 0.01). Moreover, mediating role of family relations was found to be significant in relationship between internet addiction and aggression among university students. However, gender differences were found to be non-significant on internet addiction, family relations and aggression among university students. The study will be useful in highlighting the importance of good family relations in minimizing adverse effects of internet addiction and aggression among university students.
... It is called the Interaction of Person-Affect-Cognition-Execution (I-PACE) model (Brand et al., 2014b(Brand et al., , 2019. Problematic use can occur with all of these applications, but since most findings exist for the use of online gaming (OG), social networking sites (SNS), and online pornography (OP), we focus on these three in this study (Brand et al., 2014b(Brand et al., , 2019Davis, 2001;Griffiths, 2000;Widyanto & Griffiths, 2006). ...
User’s expectations contribute to the maintenance of problematic use of online gaming (OG), social networking (SN), and online pornography (OP). Since an instrument to assess use expectations across applications is lacking, this study aimed at developing and testing such a questionnaire. It consists of a general module (GM), which includes expectations relevant to all three applications, and three application-specific modules. A pilot and a validation study were conducted with 2880 German adults. We conducted item analyses, exploratory factor analyses (EFA), exploratory structural equation modelling, and correlation analyses. The EFA revealed six factors for the GM and two factors for each specific module. The GM demonstrated measurement invariance between applications. The instrument showed excellent psychometric properties, indicating its suitability for assessing expectations concerning the use of OG, SN, and OG reliably and validly. It could be helpful for treating patients with problematic use of the applications and investigating the role of the relevant expectations.
... Previous research [21][22][23] has demonstrated that excessive use of the Internet heightens the dysfunctional expression of anger. While a number of terms such as Internet addiction, Internet addiction disorder, pathological Internet use, problematic Internet use, and compulsive Internet use have been used to describe excessive Internet use in prior studies, no consensus on such terms has emerged [24]. In this study, the term "Internet overdependence" is utilized because this term is more neutral than diagnostic terms containing words such as disorder or addiction, which more intuitively demonstrate the phenomenon. ...
The aim of this study is to examine how Internet dependence affects anger responses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Owing to social distancing policies, Internet dependence has intensified, and the prevalence of anger has significantly increased. To understand this phenomenon and draw some implications, the “frustration–aggression hypothesis” was utilized for the theoretical framework and anger response was categorized into functional and dysfunctional anger responses. An analysis shows that overdependence on the Internet has a positive effect on the dysfunctional anger response. At the same time, other negative emotions replace anger, reducing the possibility of a dysfunctional anger response. Accordingly, a need for a constant effort to understand the circumstances of the young generation living in the “new normal” is emphasized; moreover, this paper suggests some theoretical and practical implications.
... Despite the lack of consensus over name and definition, the literature lists common signs of this illness of using internet with various terminologies. Widyanto and Griffiths (2006) express that Web dependence has much of the time been conceptualized as a conduct enslavement, working on a changed standard of exemplary dependence models, however further note that the legitimacy and clinical worth of these cases has been addressed. They underscore the absence of hypothetical reason for the build notwithstanding the quantity of examinations which have been attempted on internet use. ...
The study aimed to examine the use of internet among female madrasa students who were enrolled in different madrasas of Bahawalpur. Around 300 pupils from various locations, registered in different madrasas in the district of Bahawalpur were randomly selected for data collection. The information was gathered by researchers personally by adopting/modifying a scale to quantify the study on use of internet among female madrasa students in district Bahawalpur while using internet addiction scale used and developed by Widyanto, L., & McMurran, M. (2004). The percentage means score, and different formulas through SPSS were worked out for the data investigation, which shows the lowest mean score while using the internet as compared to students going out with others. The lowest mean score was found among students who felt a bored and joyless life while disappearing from the internet. The majority of the respondents are disagreeing with the statement of disturbing thoughts of their life blocked with soothing thoughts of the internet. They also disagreed about the statement of neglecting their domestic responsibilities for the reason of spending their excess time online. The study suggests that students must practice a positive use of the internet to develop deep understanding in their studies.
... Mobile phone addiction incorporates addictive behaviors in wide-range online activities and refers to excessive use of mobile phones (Billieux et al., 2015). Impairment on daily life and mental health is commonly used as screening criteria for addiction in early studies on Internet addiction, which modifying fourth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) criteria for pathological gambling or substance abuse to develop measurements and questionnaires (Widyanto & Griffiths, 2006). The widely-used measurements related to Internet addiction also emphasize the evaluation of psychological attributes and psychological well-being of problematic users. ...
Background:
The research on e-sports mainly concerns the relationship between game playing behavior and Internet addiction, especially among college students. It remained a question of how college students' e-sports playing was associated with their lifestyle behaviors and psychological well-being in China.
Objectives:
Our study aimed to explore whether collegiate e-sports players' e-sports participation behaviors differ across demographic backgrounds and how their e-sports playing relates to their lifestyle behaviors and psychological well-being.
Methods:
A cross-sectional survey was conducted on 1441 collegiate e-sports players in China. The demographic characteristics of collegiate e-sports players were explored. The Bivariate Person correlation, linear and Tobit regression analyses were used to examine how students' e-sports playing was related to their lifestyle behaviors (i.e., sleep quality and physical activity) and psychological well-being (mobile phone addiction, online game addiction, satisfaction with life, and perceived stress).
Results:
The results of independent t-test and ANOVA analyses revealed that students from different grades, majors, family residences, and family structures differed in their e-sports participation behaviors. The results of linear regression and Tobit regression analyses also revealed that students' e-sports participation behaviors were related to their lifestyle behaviors and psychological well-being, except for sleep quality and mobile phone addiction. It is noteworthy that the length of time in playing e-sports and e-sports consumption was related to different lifestyle behaviors and psychological well-being.
Conclusion:
The findings demonstrated that e-sports playing had penetrated college students' daily life. Appropriate time arrangement and rational e-sports consumption are crucial in promoting a healthy lifestyle and psychological well-being among college students.
... Technological addictions have become an area of increasing research interest and are conceptualized as non-chemical (i.e., behavioral) addictions (Kuss & Billieux, 2017). Moreover, they can be engaged in actively or passively (Widyanto & Griffiths, 2006). For example, television addiction is a passive technological addiction, whereas smartphone addiction and Internet addiction are active technological addictions (Griffiths, 2017). ...
Individuals whose basic needs are naturally satisfied are much less dependent on their environment and more autonomous. Basic psychological needs (i.e., the general motiva-tors of human actions) are significant predictors of online gaming addiction. Moreover, it has been posited that meaning and responsibility in life are at the center of life from an existential point of view. Therefore, a hypothetical model was tested to examine the relationships between basic psychological needs (autonomy, competence, relatedness), online gaming addiction, responsibility, and meaning in life. Data were collected from a sample of 546 participants. Mediation analysis was conducted, and the results indicated that basic psychological needs, online gaming addiction, responsibility, and meaning in life had significant negative and positive relationships. The findings indicated that responsibility and meaning in life had a serial mediating effect in the relationship between basic psychological needs and online gaming addiction. The findings also showed that the inverse relationship between online gaming addiction and basic psychological needs was at least partially explained by meaning in life and responsibility. The results of the present study are of great importance and suggest that interventions to satisfy the basic psychological needs of adolescents may help prevent online gaming addiction.
... Being careful with the amount of time spent on social media platforms is important since behavioral addictions, which include social media addiction, are related to hostility, lower academic performance (Choi, 2018), depression (Widyanto & Griffiths, 2006), a lack of self-esteem (Malik & Khan, 2015) as well as other mental health effects (Sujarwoto et al., 2019). Researchers have to think about the direction of these effects. ...
The rise of the Internet has brought social media into our lives. In one way or another, a huge portion of the population utilizes social media daily. Yet many fail to consider the impact of social media in their lives. To what extent has social media changed your life? Are there sides to it that we are unaware of? The analysis of social media may seem straightforward on the outside, however, research has revealed its multifaceted impact. What is the difference between active and passive users? Has social media increased our tolerance? How has social media changed the landscape for businesses? What type of algorithms are used to decide what appears on a user’s newsfeed? These questions as well as many others are addressed in this book. The book also provides different worksheets that help the reader implement what is discussed and to become aware of how they utilize social media in their lives.
... Problematična upotreba Interneta opisuje se kao gubitak kontrole nad onlajn aktivnostima, povećan značaj koji se daje Internet ponašanju nad drugim aktivnostima, pojava tolerancije i simptoma apstinencije, kao i kontinuiran nastavak ovakvog ponašanja uprkos štetnim posledica po ostale aspekte života ( ispunjavaju ove i slične kriterijume, još uvek postoji veći broj dilema oko uključivanja ovog fenomena u zvanične dijagnostičke kriterijume (Hinić, 2011). Iako su te dileme validne, ono što je nesumnjivo je da specifična upotreba Interneta može postati disfunkcionalna i može značajno štetno uticati na svakodnevne aktivnosti ljudi (Widyanto & Griffiths, 2006). U tim slučajevima, najosetljivije su upravo najmlađe kategorije, pre svega adolescenti, i donekle studentska populacija, što je i bio razlog za seriju istraživanja na tim uzorcima, od kojih ćemo deo predstaviti u ovom radu. ...
A new framework curriculum of early childhood education in Bosnia and Herzegovina “Common core curriculum for preschool education”, published by Agency for preschool, primary and secondary education B&H (2018), will be presented in the paper. It aims to become the basis for a specific curriculum system in B&H, with comprehensive assumption to support the every child’s development, as well as, social, educational, and personal characteristics and needs, but on the other hand, the development of preschool practice and pedagogical science in early childhood
... Game addiction, which was initially evaluated as technology addiction in a general framework, was divided into sub-dimensions such as internet addiction (Widyanto & Griffiths, 2006), smartphone addiction (Kwon, et al., 2013), and game addiction . Disorders (DSM 5) is examined, it is seen that gaming addiction is considered as internet gaming disorder (APA, 2013). ...
... The internet and mobile apps are not only related to affirmative action, such as learning, having fun, and gaining information about the brand, but also too problematic user behaviors (Andreassen et al., 2013). As individuals use their internet-connected devices compulsively, they lose self-control, and despite facing adverse outcomes, they continue using their devices (Young, 1998;Widyanto & Griffiths, 2006). Indeed, Young (1998) claims that concerning its pathological signs, excessive internet use draws a massive parallel with gambling. ...
Previous studies have revealed a relationship between the Big Five Personality Traits and the excessive or compulsive use of mobile apps such as social platforms and mobile games. Thus, the main purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects of not only Big Five Personality Traits (extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, neuroticism and openness to experience) but also the locus of control and need for achievement on compulsive use of social media apps and mobile games among young smartphone users. The data was collected based on the face-to-face survey method and analyzed using SmartPLS 3 to test 14 hypotheses in total. The results show that extraversion, conscientiousness, and neuroticism significantly affect the compulsive usage of social media apps. On the other hand, agreeableness and conscientiousness have a significant effect on the compulsive use of mobile games. The most important value of this paper is that it sheds light on the effect of personality traits on the compulsive use of social media apps and mobile games among young smartphone users. This paper offers some suggestions, especially for brands with online store apps for smartphones or social media marketing, such as timing and frequencies of push notifications to users.
... Although technology addiction does not have traumatic symptoms like substance addiction, it is known that it negatively affects the mental health of individuals (Karakaya, 2021). The literature review suggests technology addiction is divided into types such as smartphone addiction (Chopdar et al., 2022;Haug et al., 2015;Panova, & Carbonell, 2018), internet addiction (Lozano-Blasco et al., 2022;Weinstein & Lejoyeux, 2010;Widyanto & Griffiths, 2006), digital game addiction (Çar & Ahraz, 2022;Kneer et al., 2014;Singh, 2019), and social media addiction (Griffiths & Kuss, 2017;Hou et al., 2019;Savci & Aysan, 2017). In addition, social media addiction is divided into forms, such as Facebook addiction (Andreassen et al., 2012;Griffiths, 2012;Ryan et al., 2014;Smith & Short, 2022), Instagram addiction (D'Souza, 2019;Kircaburun & Griffiths, 2018;Martinez-Pecino, R., & Garcia-Gavilán, 2019;Suwandi et al., 2022), Twitter addiction (Kircaburun, 2016), Youtube addiction (de Bérail et al., 2019;Klobas et al., 2018;Lee, 2020) and Tiktok addiction (Sabir et al., 2020;Smith & Short, 2022;Zhou et al., 2021). ...
Social media is one of the significant developments that the internet has placed at the center of human life. Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram are social media platforms developed for different purposes and are popularly used today. However, intensive, and uncontrolled use of social media platforms, which people of almost all ages use, causes adverse effects such as technology addiction. Technology addiction threatens younger individuals more. It is necessary to take preventive measures so that these people do not experience physical and mental problems in the future. In this context, this research aims to determine the social media usage status of high school students and examine their technology addictions regarding gender. 85 high school students participated in the research conducted in the survey model. The research results indicate that the most used social media platforms by the students are Instagram and WhatsApp, the purposes of social media usage are watching videos, having fun, and news, and there is no significant relationship between technology addiction and gender.
... Following this, the evolution of new applications such as Facebook or Twitter has further blurred the lines between problematic and functional use (Young & Abreu, 2017). A broad number of researchers agree that the use of Internet can lead to its addiction (Brezing et al., 2010;Griffiths, 2000;2000a;Widyanto & Griffiths, 2006;Young, 1996). ...
During adolescence, some youth develop anxiety disorders such as social anxiety disorder (SAD) or generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). However, few studies have been conducted to understand the specific contribution of SAD and GAD to Problematic Internet Use (PIU). In order to adapt intervention strategies, a specific understanding of the contribution of each of these disorders to PIU is necessary. The goal of this study is to evaluate the unique contributions of GAD, SAD, self-esteem, gender, preferred Internet application (video game or social media) and stressful events among PIU adolescents. The sample was constituted of 2883 adolescents (44.3% boys; age 14.61 years) recruited in high schools. Two groups of problematic Internet users were formed based on their time spent on video games (PIU-VG) or social media (PIU-SM). A multinomial logistic regression model showed that being a girl, living with GAD symptoms, reporting many stressful events and low self-esteem increase the risk of PIU-SM. Likewise, self-identifying as boy, having SAD symptoms, reporting stressful events and low self-esteem increase the risk of PIU-VG. GAD appears to be specifically associated with problematic social media use and SAD with problematic video games use. Results suggest the importance of considering specific anxiety disorders in adolescent PIU evaluation and intervention.
... e. Un último aspecto está relacionado con el fenómeno denominado adicción a Internet, trastorno de adicción a Internet, uso patológico de Internet, uso problemático de Internet, uso excesivo de Internet o uso compulsivo de Internet (Widyanto y Griffiths, 2006) como consecuencia del crecimiento y uso vertiginoso de Internet y de las redes sociales. Las redes sociales pueden atrapar en algunos casos a un adolescente porque el mundo virtual contribuye a crear en él una falsa identidad y a distanciarle (pérdida de contacto personal) o a distorsionar el mundo real (Becoña, 2009;Young, 1998). ...
El fenómeno de las redes sociales constituye un núcleo de análisis para la Psicología, y más concretamente para la Psicología Social, tanto por las relaciones que se establecen entre los individuos, necesarias para la supervivencia de la especie, como por el tipo de interacción que se establece entre ellos (Abelloy Madaraiga, 1999; Scott, 1991). Las redes sociales han sido abordadas desde diferentes campos de estudio; matemáticas, sociología, antropología o psicología, sólo habría que recodar las teorías de Moreno o de Kurt Lewis. Durante la mitad del siglo XX, con la sociedad industrializada y el boom tecnológico de las comunicaciones, las redes sociales, con el apelativo de redes 2.0, han vuelto a resurgir como principal medio de comunicación mundial, formando infinidad de conexiones humanas en cuestión de segundos y compartiendo cualquier tipo de información al instante (Castell, 2012). La base de las redes sociales iniciales, en las que el contacto físico es primordial, fue la búsqueda de apoyo emocional y de ayuda instrumental. En la actualidad se ha desvirtuado su propósito inicial, no existen límites; la juventud, como población más vulnerable, busca la inmediatez, la novedad, el mayor número de seguidores para satisfacer sus refuerzos sociales, con una relativa privacidad, dejando a un lado la interacción física, entre otros aspectos (Livingstone, 2009; Morduchowicz, 2012). Se crea pues una dependencia psicológica que termina por generar un abuso con consecuencias psicológicas negativas (Chóliz y Marco, 2012; Echeburúa y Corral, 2010). El presente trabajo pretende mostrar una visión de la evolución de las redes sociales clásicas, donde sus inicios se remontan a las teorías de la Gestalt, hasta la denominada red 2.0 o 3.0 junto, y quizá es lo más importante para la Psicología, una evolución del perfil del usuario (juventud, tipo y tiempo de uso, rasgos de personalidad o posible adicción, entre otros). Ambos aspectos son necesarios para diseñar una intervención que favorezca el uso adaptativo de las redes sociales.
... Different concepts express people's addiction to technology. In this study, the concept of digital addiction, which is coded as a new form of addiction and expresses obsessive and uncontrolled addiction on computer and internet technology, is used with the same meaning with the concepts as internet addiction disorder, compulsive internet use, pathological internet use, excessive internet use, internet dependency, problematic internet use and online addiction [7]. In this sense, digital addiction is used to mean a pathological situation that causes people to lose control over themselves and experience physical and psychological social problems [8,9] "Social Networks ", "Blogs", "Wikis", "Podcasts", "Forums", "Content Communities" and "Microblogs" are the most important tools of digital addiction [10]. ...
In the information age that we live in, various digital platforms such as social media, computers, the Internet, and smartphones have become an indispensable part of our lives. Therefore, digital addiction has emerged and spread wide due to an increase in digital technologies. In this context , this study aimed to investigate the causes and consequences of digital addiction. This study provides an in-depth and comprehensive analysis of digital addiction through a meta-synthesis of qualitative parts of qualitative and mixed studies on digital addiction published after 2007.
... Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is commonly used in addiction treatment. However, its effectiveness remains doubtful (Widyanto & Griffiths, 2006). Other techniques like behaviour therapy and self-monitoring are also in use, but the lack of study makes their outcomes unconvincing (Young, 2009). ...
Video game addiction has become a significant concern in many countries with the development of the digital entertainment industry. Researchers have devoted their efforts to understanding the causes of video game addiction and seeking solutions and treatment approaches to help reduce the addictive problem. Similar to the worldwide situation, video game addiction issues are also a major socio-cultural problem in China. Although qualitative and quantitative research methods have been used in video game addiction studies, current research still follows the model of collecting data from objective participants and then analysing it. Contrarily, there is a lack of first-person empirical data on overcoming video game addiction. This research adopts the autoethnographic approach to study video game addiction topics. The outcome indicates that the author’s game addiction is mainly created by seeking fun in gameplay and escapism from real-life problems. The factors that help the author overcome the addiction and further turn into a positive influence in his life include shifting attention and making life more purposeful.
... In recent years, the use of the Internet has increased significantly and it has become a vital part of the fields such as social communication, scientific research, and entertainment. Despite the positive and significant effects of the Internet on the everyday life of each individual, various studies have shown that the Internet can cause psychological problems for some people and affect their lives (Widyanto & Griffiths, 2006;Chou, Condron and Belland, 2005). Extreme dependence on virtual social networks is among these psychological problems, which, coupled with the inability to control the use of virtual social networks, can lead to social, educational and professional problems in the life of an individual (Schaffer, Hall, Vander and Bilt 2000). ...
Purpose: Extreme dependence on virtual social networks has devastating consequences such as academic underachievement, sleep disorder, and social isolation, clearly highlighting the need for research in this area. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of rumination, social support, loneliness and social anxiety on dependence on virtual social networks with an emphasis on the mediating role of self-regulation.
Methodology: The statistical population included all female upper secondary school students in Tehran who studied in the academic year of 2017-18. Six hundred (600) students were selected by multistage random cluster sampling. Research data was analyzed using structural equation modeling.
Findings: The results indicated that the model had a good fit. Also the direct and indirect effects of social anxiety and social support, as well as the direct impact of loneliness on the dependence on virtual social networks, are rejected at the alpha level of 0/05 and are not significant.
Discussion: Rumination and self-regulation variables were significant in direct effect. Rumination and loneliness variables were also significantly correlated with self-regulation mediation in indirect effect.
Background: In India, 622 million internet users were found out of which our nationally representative data suggest that about 20% to 40% of college students in India are at risk for internet addiction (IA). Therefore, the research on its addiction is on the rise and is an established concern.
Objectives: To study the prevalence of internet addiction in undergraduate medical graduates associating its impact, on personality traits and psychiatric conditions like depression, anxiety and stress.
Methods: It is a cross sectional study based on undergraduate medical students of Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Wardha. It is a convenience based sampling method and a Krejcie-Morgan Formula is used. Using this, the sample size came out to be 300. Clearance from the ethics committee will be obtained. An informed consent from the students will be taken, thereafter they will be asked to fill socio demographic data and then will be subjected to the following questionnaires:
1)Young’s Internet addiction test
2) DASS 21
3)Brief Big Five inventory scale
Results: We will be able to determine the prevalence of internet addiction among medical students after we have the results from the aforementioned questionnaires, their personality traits and development of psychiatric co- morbidities like depression, anxiety and stress.
Conclusions : We’ll be able to know the prevalence of internet addiction in medical students, their personality traits and the development of psychiatric co- morbidities like depression, anxiety and stress.
For many people the concept of addiction involves the ingestion of a drug. However, there is now a growing movement that views a number of behaviors as potentially addictive, including some that do not involve the ingestion of a drug, such as gambling, sex, and exercise (Orford 2001; Griffiths 2005). Increasing research into behavioral addictions has also concentrated on a particular sub‐group that has been termed “technological addictions.” Technological addictions are nonchemical (behavioral) addictions that involve excessive human–machine interaction. They can either be passive (e.g., watching television) or active (e.g., playing video games), and usually contain inducing and reinforcing features, which may contribute to the promotion of addictive tendencies. Possible activities that could be included under this category are such activities as television addiction, computer addiction (e.g., hacking, programming), video game addiction, mobile phone addiction, and Internet addiction (→ Exposure to Communication Content).
ÖZET "Dijital yerli" olarak tanımlanan Z kuşağı, 2000'lerden sonra doğan ve teknolojiyle iç içe büyümüş kişileri kapsamaktadır. İnterneti ve sosyal medyayı hayatındaki tüm süreçleri yönetmek için oldukça etkin bir şekilde kullanan bu kuşak, potansiyel bir sosyal medya bağımlısı olma riskiyle de karşı karşıyadır. Sorunlu sosyal medya kullanımı ya da takıntılı sosyal medya kullanımı gibi terimlerle de ifade edilen sosyal medya bağımlılığı; bir davranışsal bağımlılık türüdür. İnternet kullanımı konusunda kendini kontrol edememe duygusuyla karakterize edilen sosyal medya bağımlılığı, fiziksel ve duygusal problemlere neden olan olmakta ve bireyin sosyal gelişimini olumsuz yönde etkilemektedir. Z kuşağının sosyal medya bağımlılığının, yaşam doyumları üzerindeki etkisinin araştırıldığı bu çalışmada kolayda örneklem yoluyla ulaşılan 555 üniversite öğrencisinin sosyal medya kullanım alışkanlıkları incelenmiştir. Elde edilen bulgular doğrultusunda en yaygın olarak kullanılan sosyal medya platformlarının Instagram (%31), Whatsapp (%30,5) ve YouTube (%18,8) olduğu tespit edilmiştir. Katılımcıların yarısına yakını (%42,5), günlük 4 saatten fazla sosyal medya kullandıklarını ifade etmektedir. Katılımcıların sosyal medya kullanım süresi; sosyal medya bağımlılığı üzerinde anlamlı, düşük düzeyde ve pozitif bir etkisi bulunmaktadır. Ayrıca sosyal medyada geçirilen süre, yaşam doyumu üzerinde anlamlı, düşük düzeyde ve negatif bir etkisi bulunduğu tespit edilmiştir. Bununla birlikte sosyal medya bağımlılığın yaşam doyumu üzerinde doğrudan bir etkisi tespit edilmemiştir. ABSTRACT Generation Z, defined as "digital native", includes people born after the 2000s and grown up with technology. This generation, which uses the internet and social media very effectively to manage all the processes in their lives, is also at risk of becoming a potential social media addict. Social media addiction, also expressed in terms such as 1 Bu çalışma III. International Academic Studies Congress/ 13-16 May 2022 kongresinde sözlü olarak sunulmuş bildirinin genişletilmiş ve güncelleştirilmiş halidir. 2 Doç. Dr.
Bu kesitsel çalışmada Aydın ilindeki liselerin 9., 10. ve 11. sınıflarında öğrenimini sürdüren öğrencilerde problemli internet kullanımı ve dijital oyun oynama davranışının yaygınlığının belirlenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Özellikle ergenlik dönemindeki bireylerde problemli internet ve oyun kullanımının günden güne artığına dair alanyazındaki araştırma bulguları ile birlikte ülkemizde bu konudaki geniş çaplı ve çoklu örnekleme içinde küme örneklem yöntemi kullanılarak yapılan epidemiyolojik çalışmaların eksikliği dikkat çekmektedir. Bu çalışma, problemli internet kullanımı ve dijital oyun oynama davranışına ilişkin epidemiyolojik bilgi sağlayacak olması açısından önem taşımaktadır. Veriler çoklu örnekleme içinde küme örneklem yöntemi kullanılarak ulaşılan yaşları 13 ile 18 arasında değişen 461'i erkek, 519’u kız toplam 980 öğrenciden; Demografik Bilgi Formu, SanalMetre, İnternet Bağımlılık Ölçeği ve Dijital Oyun Bağımlılığı Ölçeği ile toplanmış; frekans analizi, MANOVA ve bağımsız örneklemler t-testi ile analiz edilmiştir. Problemli internet kullanımı açısından, katılımcıların %.5'inin patolojik internet kullanıcısı olduğu, %14.6'sının sınırlı sayıda belirti gösterdiği, %85'inin ise belirti göstermediği belirlenmiştir. Problemli dijital oyun oynama davranışı açısından ise, monotetik formata göre katılımcıların %12.3'ünün yüksek riskli, politetik formata göre ise %33.7'sinin riskli oyuncu olduğu bulunmuştur. Katılımcıların problemli internet kullanımı ya da dijital oyun oynama davranışlarının cinsiyet, algılanan gelir ya da ebeveyn eğitim durumu açısından farklılık göstermediği bulunmuştur.
The main purpose of this paper is to model the new ways of knowledge creation and their relationship with both exploratory and exploitative innovation. Based on Dubin’s quantitative method of theory building, a conceptualization of a model concerning transformations in the creation of knowledge in an organization embedded in technology is presented. The authors construct and analyze a novel model called Persistent Leveraging of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Systems Tapers Innovation Capability ‘PLASTIC’, which models on-going transitions in knowledge management practices. The theoretical model aids in the understanding of the specific knowledge processes within an organization and the main prospective challenges, obstacles and difficulties for knowledge management over the next decade. It discusses the role of a changeable environment and the interactions between technology-driven transformations and human-oriented practices, and it enables the evaluation of the future adaptation in knowledge management processes. This research is the first to challenge the impact of AI aided searching on the workforce and provides the catalyst for discussion of long-term innovation implications.KeywordsKnowledge ManagementImpact of AI SearchingInformation RetrievalInnovation stagnationExploratory InnovationExploitative Innovation
The smartphone has become an indispensable device in modern life, consequential psychosocial problems such as smartphone addiction have gained worldwide attention. The aim of the present study is to assess the relation between smartphone overuse and seeking pleasure linked with reward system overstimulation and dopa-mine continuous release. A survey instrument using a web-based questionnaire distributed via social media was developed after a thorough literature review and was deployed to collect data from smartphone users. The study participants in total numbered 374 users from different age groups, with the average age being between 19 and 25 years old; with 227 females (60.9%) and 147 (39.1%) males. Responses to the Smart-phone Addiction Scale-Short version (SAS-SV) test including 10-items were rated on a 6-point Likert scale, and their percentage mean score (PMS) was calculated. Factors associated with these outcomes were identified using descriptive and regression analyses. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. Over 76% of smartphone users declared having pleasure feelings during repetitive utilization. The result obtained by the SAS-SV test showed that subjects with higher scores presented high levels of addiction. The majority of the participants in this study had a university degree n=344 (91.9%), while n=30 (8%) had diplomas of completing secondary and primary school. The PMS of addiction was 39.2±20.3, while the mean score (MS) of seeking pleasure was 76±10.0. A significant positive correlation was present between smart-phone overuse and seeking pleasure (y=76+0.8×;P<0.001). Significantly , higher smartphone addiction scores were associated with pleasure and enjoyment feelings, (β =−0.203, adj. P=0.004). The ad-dic tion scores were higher in single status users when compared to married users (β=−2.03, adj. P=0.01 vs. (β=0.194, adj. P< 0.001). Factors associated to higher addiction scores were gender, namely the affected being females and single status users when compared to males and married users as these had higher smartphone addiction scores. The positive correlation between smartphone addiction and seeking pleasure is alarming. Reasonable usage of smartphones is advised, especially among younger adults who could be at higher risk of control loss. Background:
The smartphone has become an indispensable device in modern life, consequential psychosocial problems such as smartphone addiction have gained worldwide attention. The aim of the present study is to assess the relation between smartphone overuse and seeking pleasure linked with reward system overstimulation and dopa-mine continuous release. A survey instrument using a web-based questionnaire distributed via social media was developed after a thorough literature review and was deployed to collect data from smartphone users. The study participants in total numbered 374 users from different age groups, with the average age being between 19 and 25 years old; with 227 females (60.9%) and 147 (39.1%) males. Responses to the Smart-phone Addiction Scale-Short version (SAS-SV) test including 10-items were rated on a 6-point Likert scale, and their percentage mean score (PMS) was calculated. Factors associated with these outcomes were identified using descriptive and regression analyses. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. Over 76% of smartphone users declared having pleasure feelings during repetitive utilization. The result obtained by the SAS-SV test showed that subjects with higher scores presented high levels of addiction. The majority of the participants in this study had a university degree n=344 (91.9%), while n=30 (8%) had diplomas of completing secondary and primary school. The PMS of addiction was 39.2±20.3, while the mean score (MS) of seeking pleasure was 76±10.0. A significant positive correlation was present between smart-phone overuse and seeking pleasure (y=76+0.8×;P<0.001). Significantly , higher smartphone addiction scores were associated with pleasure and enjoyment feelings, (β =−0.203, adj. P=0.004). The ad-dic tion scores were higher in single status users when compared to married users (β=−2.03, adj. P=0.01 vs. (β=0.194, adj. P< 0.001). Factors associated to higher addiction scores were gender, namely the affected being females and single status users when compared to males and married users as these had higher smartphone addiction scores. The positive correlation between smartphone addiction and seeking pleasure is alarming. Reasonable usage of smartphones is advised, especially among younger adults who could be at higher risk of control loss. Background:
(1) Background: Bullying victimization has been associated with several behavioral outcomes, particularly loneliness. Similarly, an increase in social network use has been identified in recent years, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, and has been shown to be associated with bullying and loneliness. Investigating the mediating factors of loneliness among bullied ado-lescents is useful for taking preventive measures in the Lebanese population. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between bullying victimization and loneliness among Lebanese adolescents while considering the indirect effect of problematic social network use. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional study, carried out between January and April 2022, enrolled 379 ado-lescent Lebanese students (64.9% female, mean age 16.07 ± 1.19 years) who were current residents in Lebanon (15 to 18 years), and were from across all Lebanese governorates (Beirut, Mount Lebanon, North, South and Bekaa). The snowball method was applied to select our sample; an electronic copy of the questionnaire was created using the Google Forms software and an online strategy was designed to collect the data. (3) Results: Negative social comparison and addictive consequences of problematic use of social network mediated the association between bullying victimization and loneliness. Higher bullying victimization was significantly associated with higher negative social comparison and addictive consequences of problematic use of social net-work, which in turn were significantly associated with more loneliness. Finally, higher bullying victimization was directly significantly associated with more loneliness. (4) Conclusions: Stud-ying the mediating factors of loneliness in bullied adolescents can improve our understanding of this topic, allowing us to propose new interventions to prevent psychological problems in adolescents. Further studies are needed to clarify the physiological mechanisms underlying the associations between social triggers and loneliness during adolescence.
The purpose of the present study was to explore the relationship between internet addiction, relationship satisfaction, and Gestalt contact styles among university students. A sample from a university in Turkey was recruited, which included 373 university students (271 females, 72.7%), aged 15-55. We administered and assessed the Gestalt Contact Disturbances Scale, Young’s Internet Addiction Test, and the Relationship Assessment Scale. The relations were explored using Pearson’s correlation and path analysis. Results indicated that contact, dependent contact, final contact, and full contact has significantly effect relationship satisfaction. Also, contact, full contact, relationship satisfaction has significantly effect internet addiction. Dependent contact and final contact has no significant effect on internet addiction. The results provided a perspective on expanding the literature of Gestalt therapy and internet addiction. We have provided some suggestions for Gestalt therapists and counselors.
Background:
Excessive social media consumption leads to addiction and affects mental health. It is a phenomenon that is difficult to avoid. Previous research on the effects of excessive Internet use shows that people who engage in social media (SM) without restraint experience over-involvement, over-disclosure, technostress, and social media fatigue (SMF). SMF, conceptualized as an emotional and cognitive feeling of being overwhelmed, manifests itself in mindless browsing of content, limiting the amount of time spent on SM, or quitting SM altogether. Self-control, although present in the technology addiction literature and psychology research, has been rarely described in relation to both excessive SM use and SMF. Therefore, the main goal of the present study was to verify whether there is a direct relationship between problematic smartphone use and SMF, and whether this association is mediated by self-control.
Methods:
The study included 210 respondents (M = 25.85, SD = 9.84) living in different Polish cities. The survey was conducted online, and the respondents consented to participate in the study. They completed the following measures: the Mobile Phone Problematic Use, the Self-Control Scale, the Social Media Fatigue Scale, and a brief questionnaire with socio-demographic data.
Results:
Statistical analysis was performed to verify the relationship between problematic mobile phone use, level of self-control, and SMF. The outcomes indicate that there are significant interrelationships between the three studied variables. The association between problematic smartphone use and SMF is mediated by self-control.
Conclusion:
A lack of impulse-inhibition skills, such as compulsive checking of notifications, can be a significant factor in SM exhaustion, fatigue, or frustration. SMF can also be understood as a natural defensive response, triggered in situations where individuals are overwhelmed, when the self-control is insufficient to stop the compulsion to use SM, and the use of a smartphone for this purpose is excessively engaging.
This study focuses on how co-parenting patterns may influence young people’s Internet addiction in the Chinese social context. The present study uses the Family Systems Theory to conceptualize the theoretical model and examines the intertwined effect of gender on the relationship between co-parenting and Internet addiction.A total of 695 self-report questionnaires from middle and high school students were analyzed. This study generalized two co-parenting factors based on original parenting styles’ measurement. Co-parenting patterns combined with strict and refuse parenting styles were significantly related to Internet addiction. The competing co-parenting pattern mixed with stricture and over-protection parenting styles strongly predicted children’s Internet disorder. Gender moderated the impact of co-parenting on Internet addiction.This study fills the research gap and explores the association between co-parenting and Internet addiction in Confucian cultural backgrounds. The findings yield a better understanding of the co-parenting effect and provide instruction for defending against Internet addiction among the youth. The developed measurements of the co-parenting and theoretical model will contribute to the knowledge pool of Internet use, parent-child communication, family relationship, and youth study.
Çalışmanın temel amacı, oyun bağımlılığı, sadakat, satın alma niyeti ve memnuniyet arasındaki ilişkiyi incelemektir. Bu bağlamda, oyun bağımlılığı, sadakat, satın alma niyeti ve memnuniyet değişkenlerinden oluşan bir model ortaya konmuştur. Bu model kapsamında Türkiye’de yaşayan ve oyun oynayan 18 yaşından büyük 244 bireye kolayda örneklem yöntemiyle çevrimiçi anket uygulanmış, anketten elde edilen veriler yapısal eşitlik modellemesi kullanılarak analiz edilmiştir. Bu araştırma, oyun üreten yazılımcı firmalar ve alanyazın için önemli bulgular ve öneriler vermektedir. Elde edilen bulgular neticesinde, oyun bağımlılığının sadakat üzerinde önemli bir etkisinin bulunduğu ortaya çıkmaktadır. Bununla birlikte oyun bağımlılığının satın alma niyeti ve memnuniyet değişkenlerinin üzerinde olumlu ve anlamlı bir etki bıraktığı saptanmıştır. Diğer bir yandan memnuniyetin sadakat üzerinde anlamlı bir etkisi olduğu, memnuniyetin satın alma niyeti üzerinde anlamlı bir etkisi olduğu tespit edilmiştir.
The paper examines the multi-dimensional nature of Internet Addiction (IA) and its influence on Well-Being (WB) amongst a representative sample of 320 young urban Indian internet users. Nine hypotheses are proposed through a conceptual model to assess the multi-dimensional nature of IA and its relationship with WB. Partial Least Squares – Structure Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) was conducted to assess the hypothesised relationships. Of the proposed nine hypotheses, seven were accepted. The result indicated IA as a four-dimensional construct – Internet Control Disorder (ICD), Internet Craving (IC), Internet Obsession (IO), and Addictive Behaviour (AB). The findings supported that ICD positively and significantly influences IC. IC and AB both have a significant impact on IO. ICD and IC have a significant impact on the individual’s AB. ICD and IO significantly influence WB. With respect to the dimensions IC, AB, and IO, the model is successful in explaining around 26%, 45%, and 33% of the variation. IA as a multi-dimensional phenomenon and its relationship with WB in a young-demographic nation like India has immense academic and societal value. The study provides critical actionable insights for users, educators, health counsellors, parents, and policymakers regarding interventions for controlling internet addiction.
Adolescents spend considerable amounts of time using digital media and social media. Although risks and benefits exist, clinicians, teachers, and parents have grown concerned about problematic use, or excessive use that interferes with adolescents’ health, well-being, and development. In this chapter, we explain the difference between problematic and normative media use, and review existing prevention and treatment approaches for problematic social media use. Although we could not identify published prevention or intervention programs specific to problematic social media use, we present results from a pilot study and other digital media interventions and provide guidance on how clinicians should screen for problematic media use. As this research is still in its early stages, we conclude with directions for future research. Research needs to expand beyond simple measures of amount of social media use and recruit more diverse adolescents (including adolescents with comorbid mental health concerns).
The model introduced and tested in the current study suggests that lonely and depressed individuals may develop a preference for online social interaction, which, in turn, leads to negative outcomes associated with their Internet use. Participants completed measures of preference for online social interaction, depression, loneliness, problematic Internet use, and negative outcomes resulting from their Internet use.Results indicated that psychosocial health predicted levels of preference for online social interaction, which, in turn, predicted negative outcomes associated with problematic Internet use. In addition, the results indicated that the influence of psychosocial distress on negative outcomes due to Internet use is mediated by preference for online socialization and other symptoms of problematic Internet use.T he results support the current hypothesis that that individuals’ preference for online, rather than face-to-face, social interaction plays an important role in the development of negative consequences associated with problematic Internet use.
For many people the concept of addiction involves taking drugs. Therefore it is perhaps unsurprising that most official definitions concentrate on drug ingestion. Despite such definitions, there is now a growing movement which views a number of behaviours as potentially addictive, including many behaviours which do not involve the ingestion of a drug. But do behavioural addictions really exist? Answers this question by examining the various commonalities (psychological, sociological and cultural) between excessive behaviours (behavioural and chemical) and by drawing on the author’s own work into fruit-machine addiction. Concludes that addictions are not just restricted to drug-ingestion behaviours and that evidence is growing that excessive behaviours of all types do seem to have many commonalities.
This article gives an overview of some of the main issues in the most serious form of Internet abuse (i.e., Internet addiction) before examining other types of workplace Internet abuse (cybersexual Internet abuse, online friendship/relationship abuse, Internet activity abuse, online information abuse, criminal Internet abuse, and miscellaneous Internet abuse) and why they occur. A few specific types of Internet abuse (online pornography use, sexually related Internet crime, online gambling) are also highlighted as issues for employers. The author concludes that Internet abuse should be taken seriously by all employers who use the Internet in their day-to-day business.
Prior research noted paradoxical effects of Internet usage, with increased communication but decreased social engagement. A 3-year follow-up revealed that the negative effects had dissipated. The authors examined the relations between duration (months online) and frequency (hours per week) of Internet usage and 5 mental health domains (current and prior mental health treatment, suicidal intent, and past and present behavioral difficulties). Statistically significant differences in frequency and duration were associated with the main effects of mutually exclusive mental health domains. Hierarchical logistic regressions revealed that duration mediated the adverse effects of frequency in some domains. Age of participants significantly increased the goodness of fit in predicting adverse outcomes of frequency and duration of Internet usage. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)
We present a revision of the 1978 reformulated theory of helplessness and depression and call it the
hopelessness theory of depression. Although the 1978 reformulation has generated a vast amount of empirical work on depression over the past 10 years and recently has been evaluated as a model of depression, we do not think that it presents a clearly articulated theory of depression. We build on the skeletal logic of the 1978 statement and (a) propose a hypothesized subtype of depression—
hopelessness depression, (b) introduce hopelessness as a proximal sufficient cause of the symptoms of hopelessness depression, (c) deemphasize causal attributions because inferred negative consequences and inferred negative characteristics about the self are also postulated to contribute to the formation of hopelessness and, in turn, the symptoms of hopelessness depression, and (d) clarify the diathesis—stress and causal mediation components implied, but not explicitly articulated, in the 1978 statement. We report promising findings for the hopelessness theory and outline the aspects that still need to be tested. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)
On-line surveys indicate harmful excessive use of the Internet resulting in psychosocial problems (Internet addiction). Population studies are scarce, particularly on adolescents who are a vulnerable group in the middle of their personality development.
The prevalence of features suggesting harmful use of the Internet is studied in a representative sample of 12–18 year-old Finns (N = 7292) in a postal survey in 2001. Criteria were tailored analogously to the criteria of pathological gambling, fulfilling four of the seven criteria operationalised as Internet addiction.
Eighty five percent used the Internet. Among daily users 4.6% of boys and 4.7% of girls fulfilled the four criteria, infrequent users 0.3 and 0.5%, and all respondents 1.7 and 1.4%, respectively. The “addicts” spent more hours (mean = 2.7) in the Internet daily than the “non-addicts” (mean = 1.3).
Some adolescents reported a potentially harmful relationship with the Internet comparable to addictive disorders. Although not common now, it will most likely increase with the increasing Internet use.
Abstract The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between attention deficit-hyperactivity/impulsivity symptoms and Internet addiction. In total, 535 elementary school students (264 boys, 271 girls; mean age, 11.0 ± 1.0 years) were recruited. The presence or severity of Internet addiction was assessed by the Young's Internet Addiction test. Parents and teachers of the children completed the DuPaul's attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) rating scale (ARS; Korean version, K-ARS) and Child Behavior Checklists. Children with the highest and lowest quartiles in K-ARS scores were defined to be in ADHD and non-ADHD groups, respectively. Five children (0.9%) met criteria for a definite Internet addiction and 75 children (14.0%) met criteria for a probable Internet addiction. K-ARS scores had significant positive correlations with Young's Internet Addiction test scores. The Internet addiction group had higher total scores of K-ARS and ADHD-related subcategories in the Child Behavior Checklists than the non-addiction group. The ADHD group had higher Internet addiction scores compared with the non-ADHD group. Therefore, significant associations have been found between the level of ADHD symptoms and the severity of Internet addiction in children. In addition, current findings suggest that the presence of ADHD symptoms, both in inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity domains, may be one of the important risk factors for Internet addiction.
The Internet could change the lives of average citizens as much as did the telephone in the early part of the 20th century and television in the 1950s and 1960s. Researchers and social critics are debating whether the Internet is improving or harming participation in community life and social relationships. This research examined the social and psychological impact of the Internet on 169 people in 73 households during their first 1 to 2 years on-line. We used longitudinal data to examine the effects of the Internet on social involvement and psychological well-being. In this sample, the Internet was used extensively for communication. Nonetheless, greater use of the Internet was associated with declines in participants' communication with family members in the household, declines in the size of their social circle, and increases in their depression and loneliness. These findings have implications for research, for public policy and for the design of technology.
Problems related to intemperate Internet use are examined within the conceptual framework of addiction. It is argued that empirical support for the construct validity of computer addiction has yet to emerge, that defining the construct as a unique psychiatric disorder is therefore premature, and that, in most cases, excessive computer use may be symptomatic of other, more primary disorders. Greater caution and rigor are urged in investigating and treating problems related to intemperate computer use.
Patterns of Internet use among 531 college students were investigated (46.3% men, 53.7% women, 68.5% Caucasian, 10.7% Hispanic American, 8.9% Asian American, 3% African American, 0.2% American Indian, 8.7% international students, age M = 24.46). Seventy-three percent of the students accessed the Internet at least once a week, 13% of weekly users reported that their use was excessive and significantly interfered with personal functioning. Findings support further development of educational programming and research.
Anecdotal reports indicated that some on-line users were becoming addicted to the Internet in much the same way that others became addicted to drugs or alcohol, which resulted in academic, social, and occupational impairment. However, research among sociologists, psychologists, or psychiatrists has not formally identified addictive use of the Internet as a problematic behavior. This study investigated the existence of Internet addiction and the extent of problems caused by such potential misuse. Of all the diagnoses referenced in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders - Fourth Edition (DSM-IV; American Psychiatric Association, 1995), Pathological Gambling was viewed as most akin to the pathological nature of Internet use. By using Pathological Gambling as a model, addictive Internet use can be defined as an impulse-control disorder that does not involve an intoxicant. Therefore, this study developed a brief eight-item questionnaire referred to as a Diagnostic Questionnaire (DQ), which modified criteria for pathological gambling to provide a screening instrument for classification of participants. On the basis of this criteria, case studies of 396 dependent Internet users (Dependents) and 100 nondependent Internet users (Nondependents) were classified. Qualitative analyses suggest significant behavioral and functional usage differences between the two groups such as the types of applications utilized, the degree of difficulty controlling weekly usage, and the severity of problems noted. Clinical and social implications of pathological Internet use and future directions for research are discussed.
Two case studies that describe individuals who use the Internet eight hours or more per day are presented. The first portrays and discusses the severe problems that occurred in a student's social, occupational and scholastic life as a result of his frequent Internet use. The second case study shows how the Internet has both improved and hindered a foreign exchange student's life. These cases illustrate how interactive technologies engage users psychologically, and may prompt both adaptive and maladaptive behaviors and consequences among college students.
This study investigated personality traits of those considered dependent users of the Internet utilizing the 16PF. Results showed that 259 cases of Dependents were classified based upon modified DSM-IV criteria for Pathological Gambling. Dependents ranked high in terms of self- reliance, emotional sensitivity and reactivity, vigilance, low self-disclosure, and non-conformist characteristics. This preliminary analysis discusses how such traits may act as triggers of addiction in order to fulfill an unmet psychological need through on-line stimulation.
SUMMARY The Internet itself is a neutral device originally designed to facilitate research among academic and military agencies. How some people have come to use this medium, however, has created a stir among the mental health community by great discussion of Internet addiction. Addictive use of the Internet is a new phenomenon which many practitioners are unaware of and subsequently unprepared to treat. Some therapists are unfamiliar with the Internet, making its seduction difficult to understand. O ther tim es, its im pact on the individual's life is m inim ized. T he purpose of this chapter is to enable clinicians to better detect and treat Internet addiction. The chapter will first focus on the complications of diagnosis of Internet addiction. Second, the negative consequences of such Internet abuse are explored. Third, how to properly assess and identify triggers causing the onset of pathological Internet use are discussed. Fourth, a number of recovery strategies are presented. Lastly, since Internet addiction is an emergent disorder, implications for future practice are presented. Complications In Diagnosing Internet Addiction Negative Consequences Of Addictive Use Of The Internet
Relationships between personality, cognitive style and Internet use were examined in a longitudinal field study. Participants were low-income African American and European American adults residing in a mid-size urban community in the United States whose Internet use was automatically and continuously recorded for 6 months. Results indicated that extraversion and neuroticism were related to Internet use, but only during the first 3 months of home Internet access. Preferences for global/relational and visual processing, and for abstract conceptualization were weakly related to Internet use at both time intervals. Strongest were relationships between race and Internet use and, to a lesser extent, between education, marital status, and Internet use. The importance of additional research to identify personal and cultural characteristics that may influence and sustain Internet use is discussed.
Internet Behavior Dependence (IBD), a form of Internet addiction, is a new disorder requiring informed response from addictions clinicians such as mental health counselors. Presents a working definition for IBD, overviews the prevalence rates and demographic profiles of dependent users, and reviews assessment criteria and treatment for IBD. (Contains 34 references.) (GCP)
Some academics claim that social pathologies referred to as technological addictions are beginning to surface in cyberspace. One related area that deserves further examination is the concept of sex addiction and its relationship with excessive Internet usage. This article therefore overviews (a) sex‐related uses of the Internet, (b) the concept of “Internet addiction” in relation to excessive sexual behavior, (c) cybersex and cyber‐relationships, (d) cyber‐relationship typologies, (e) the claims made for Internet sex addiction, and (f) the empirical data relating to Internet sex addiction. It is concluded that Internet sex is a new medium of expression where factors such as perceived anonymity and disinhibition may increase participation. It is also argued that although the amount of empirical data is small, Internet sex addiction exists.
The Internet appears to have become an ever-increasing part in many areas of people's day-to-day lives. One area that deserves further examination surrounds sexual behavior and excessive Internet usage. It has been alleged by some academics that social pathologies are beginning to surface in cyberspace and have been referred to as 'technological addictions.' Such research may have implications and insights into sexuality and sexual behavior. Therefore, this article examines the concept of 'Internet addiction' in relation to excessive sexual behavior and Internet pornography, as well as examining newer areas of Internet sexuality such as 'online relationships' and sexually-related Internet crime (e.g., 'cyberstalking').
It has been alleged that social pathologies are beginning to surface in cyberspace (i.e., technological addictions). To date, there is very little empirical evidence that computing activities (i.e., internet use, hacking, programming) are addictive. Anecdotal evidence indicates that the typical "addict" is a teenager, usually male, with little or no social life, and little or no self-confidence. This article concentrates on five case studies of excessive computer usage. It is argued that of the five cases, only two of them describe "addicted" subjects. Addiction components criteria were used in the assessment. The excessive usage in the majority of cases was purely symptomatic and was highlighted how the subjects used the Internet/computer to counteract other deficiencies.
Kraut et al. (1998) reported negative effects of using the Internet on social involvement and psychological well-being among new Internet users in 1995–96. We called the effects a “paradox” because participants used the Internet heavily for communication, which generally has positive effects. A 3-year follow-up of 208 of these respondents found that negative effects dissipated. We also report findings from a longitudinal survey in 1998–99 of 406 new computer and television purchasers. This sample generally experienced positive effects of using the Internet on communication, social involvement, and well-being. However, consistent with a “rich get richer” model, using the Internet predicted better outcomes for extraverts and those with more social support but worse outcomes for introverts and those with less support.
‘Addiction’ denotes repetitive routines that aim to obtain chemicals and, less often, routines without that aim. The latter are behavioural addictions. They include obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), compulsive spending (including gambling), overeating (bulimia), hypersexuality (straight or deviant), and kleptomania. Common across dependence syndromes is: a repeated urge to engage in behaviour known to be counterproductive; mounting tension until it is completed; rapid temporary switching off of the tension by completing the behaviour; gradual return of the urge; syndrome-specific external and perhaps internal cues for the urge; secondary conditioning of the urge to external and internal cues; similar strategies for relapse prevention by cue exposure and stimulus control. The urge to complete a behaviour and discomfort if prevented from this resemble the craving and the withdrawal (WD) symptoms of substance abusers. Some WD symptoms are common to several addictive syndromes while others may be more specific. Addiction (pull) and compulsion (push) overlap and can occur sequentially or concurrently. Different addictions occur with varying amounts of pleasure at various stages. Prolonged exposure can enduringly reduce the urge and discomfort in OCD, and may help some other addictions. Conditioned cues are important and for lasting efficacy a therapist may need to know their details for each syndrome. There may be some similarities in the early management and prevention of relapse of behavioural and chemical addictions.
Recent research at colleges and universities has suggested that some college students’ academic performance might be impaired by heavier use of the Internet. This study reviews the relevant literature and presents data from a survey of 572 students at a large public university. Heavier recreational Internet use was shown to be correlated highly with impaired academic performance. Loneliness, staying up late, tiredness, and missing class were also intercorrelated with self-reports of Internet-caused impairment. Self-reported Internet dependency and impaired academic performance were both associated with greater use of all Internet applications, but particularly with much greater use of synchronous communication applications such as chat rooms and MUDs, as opposed to asynchronous applications such as email and Usenet newsgroups.
This article introduces a cognitive-behavioral model of Pathological Internet Use (PIU). While previous studies on Internet addiction have described behavioral factors, such as withdrawal and tolerance, the present article focuses on the maladaptive cognitions associated with PIU. The cognitive-behavioral model of PIU distinguishes between specific PIU and generalized PIU. Specific PIU refers to the condition in which an individual pathologically uses the Internet for a particular purpose, such as online sex or online gambling, whereas generalized PIU describes a more global set of behaviors. The model implies a more important role of cognitions in PIU, and describes the means by which PIU is both developed and maintained. Furthermore, it provides a framework for the development of cognitive-behavioral interventions for PIU.
This study surveyed 277 undergraduate Internet users, a population considered to be high risk for pathological Internet use (PIU), to assess incidence of PIU as well as characteristics of the Internet and of users associated with PIU. Pathological use was determined by responses to 13 questions which assessed evidence that Internet use was causing academic, work or interpersonal problems, distress, tolerance symptoms, and mood-altering use of the Internet. Approximately one-quarter of students (27.2%) reported no symptoms (NO) while 64.7% reported one to three symptoms (Limited Symptoms) and 8.1% reported four or more symptoms (PIU). Based on popular stereotypes as well as previous research, it was predicted that pathological Internet users would more likely be males, technologically sophisticated, use real-time interactive activities such as online games and chat lines, and feel comfortable and competent online. Further, it was hypothesized that pathological users would be more likely to be lonely and to be socially disinhibited online. Partial confirmation of this model was obtained. Pathological users were more likely to be males and to use online games as well as technologically sophisticated sites, but there was no difference in Internet Relay Chat use. Although reported comfort and competence with the Internet was in the expected direction, differences were not significant. Pathological users scored significantly higher on the UCLA Loneliness Scale, and were socially disinhibited online.
The paper presents results from an exploratory study that: (1) developed a theory-based measure of PIU and (2) administered the instrument to a sample of undergraduate students to assess the associations among PIU and several psychosocial variables including, depression, self-esteem, loneliness, and shyness. A new instrument, the Generalized Problematic Internet Use Scale (GPIUS) was designed to operationalize Davis's [Computers in Human Behavior, 17 (2001), 187] theoretical construct of generalized PIU. The GPIUS and several measures of psychosocial well-being were administered to 386 undergraduate students. Results from this preliminary study indicate that the GPIUS is both reliable and valid. A factor analysis identified seven unique sub-dimensions of the GPIUS, including: mood alteration, perceived social benefits available online, negative outcomes associated with Internet use, compulsive Internet use, excessive amounts of time spent online, withdrawal symptoms when away from the Internet, and perceived social control available online. All GPIUS subscales were correlated with psychosocial health variables including: depression, loneliness, shyness, and self-esteem. A regression analysis identified several important psychosocial and cognitive–behavioral predictors of negative outcomes associated with generalized PIU. Results also suggest that one's preference for computer-mediated social interaction, as opposed to face-to-face interaction, plays a role in the etiology, development, and outcomes of generalized PIU.
Despite its uses, the Internet is liable to be abused. “Internet Addiction” is a newly proposed construct, derived form DSM-IV criteria for substance abuse. As a very recent phenomenon, excess internet use probably arises through pre-existing mechanisms. The addictive element may be the search for stimulation through interactive services, or the Internet may serve the purpose of an escape from real-life difficulties. We therefore considered the extent to which sensation seeking or poor self-esteem predicts heavier Internet use. Fifty participants, recruited through the Internet or the Internet Addiction Support Group, completed an Internet Related Problem Scale, the MMPI-2 Addiction Potential Scale, the Coopersmith Self-Esteem Inventory and the Sensation Seeking Scale. The Internet Related Problem Scale showed a moderate level of internal consistency and demonstrated construct validity, predicting hours of Internet use and having a relationship with the Addiction Potential Scale. While poorer self-esteem predicted greater scores on the Internet Related Problem Scale, impulsivity did not. Researchers need to re-assess previous conceptualizations of the typical “computer addict” as a highly educated, male introvert with a constant need for intellectual stimulation (Shotton, 1991).
Anecdotal evidence has suggested that mental health practitioners' report increased caseloads of clients whose primary complaint involves the Internet. However, little is known about the incidence, associated behaviors, attitudes of practitioners, and interventions involved related to this relatively new phenomenon. Therefore, this study surveyed therapists who have treated clients suffering from cyber-related problems to gather such outcome information. Respondents reported an average caseload of nine clients who they classified as Internet-addicted, with a range between 2 and 50 clients treated within the past year. Five general subtypes of Internet addiction were categorized based on the most problematic types of online applications, and they include addictions to Cybersex, Cyber-relationships, online stock trading or gambling, information surfing, and computer games. Treatment strategies included cognitive-behavioral approaches, sexual offender therapy, marital and family therapy, social skills training, and pharmacological interventions. Based on their client encounters, efforts to initiate support groups and recovery programs specializing in the treatment of Internet addiction were being considered. Finally, based upon the findings, this article examines the impact of cyberdisorders on future research, treatment, and public policy issues for the new millennium.
Computer technology is expanding at an exponential rate, and its effect on society and individuals is being observed in many locations and by many professionals. Computer-addictive behavior is characterized by excessive and inappropriate use of the computer that has repercussions on an individual's real life obligations and relationships. Currently, these unanticipated consequences have been variously classified as computer addiction, Internet addiction disorder, problematic internet use, pathological internet use, and as a new symptom to be added to other psychiatric conditions. Mounting evidence indicates that those who are vulnerable to these problems suffer from multiple co-morbid psychiatric disorders. The problem is further complicated because computer usage is so pervasive in our society that the aim of treatment cannot be abstinence. It must be treated as an eating disorder where the goal is to normalize computer activities in order to survive. Assessment of each patient consists of the measurement of problematic computer behavior and definition of the expectations they have for the effects of these activities. Because of the complexity of these patients' problems, treatment needs to be multidisciplinary and include cognitive behavior therapy, psychotropic medication, family therapy, and case managers. Teamwork is emphasized. Also, regular assessments at 3-month intervals are important both for the patient and the team. The aim of the treatment is to help the patient manage the inappropriate behavior and still be able to use the technology.
Past research on Internet dependence has suggested that those who are Internet dependent spend more time on-line, use chat rooms more frequently, play MUDs more often, and web surf more than nondependent Internet users, but few studies have examined how personality characteristics interact with Internet dependence. This study investigates how Internet usage, preferences, attitudes toward the Internet, and Internet behaviors are correlated with sensation seeking. It was predicted that participants who were higher in Internet usage and Internet behaviors would be higher in sensation seeking. Results indicated that Internet dependents tended to spend more time online, use E-mail, surf the web, use chat rooms, use MUDs, and visit cybersex sites more often than nondependent Internet users. However, dependents scored significantly lower on sensation seeking, thrill and adventure seeking, and excitement seeking than nondependent Internet users. It was concluded that dependents interact with the internet using a motivation scheme dissimilar to the physical thrill and excitement that typically characterize sensation seeking archetypes.
This study attempted to address the areas of Internet use and abuse by analyzing data derived from an online survey of 17,251 individuals. Data were collected from a joint project with ABC-NEWS.com, in which survey participants answered a 36-item questionnaire regarding their Internet use and behavior. The main findings of the study supported previous research indicating that approximately 6% of those surveyed met the criteria for Internet addiction. The study also examined the unique factors involved with sexuality on the Internet, and supported the frequently observed tendency for the progression of virtual sexual behavior to real-time sexual relations. A clear correlation was also found between cybersexual behavior and subsequent realtime sexual activity. In addition, there was an assessment of factors contributing to Internet addiction that was addressed using a regression analysis; the psychological regression found that nearly 46% of Internet addiction variance was accounted for by the variables examined in the study. The contribution of factors unique to Internet use, such as disinhibition, anonymity, ease of access, accelerated intimacy, time distortion (dissociation), and intensity/stimulation of online content were also explored. The study supports the compulsive nature of Internet use for certain individuals and offers suggestions for further research.
This case involves a homemaker 43 years of age who is addicted to using the Internet. This case was selected as it demonstrates that a nontechnologically oriented woman with a reportedly content home life and no prior addiction or psychiatric history abused the Internet which resulted in significant impairment to her family life. This paper defines addictive use of the Internet, outlines the subject's progression of addictive on-line use, and discusses the implications of such addictive behavior on the new market of Internet consumers.
While the addictive potential of Internet usage is a topic that has attracted a great deal of attention, as yet little research has addressed this topic. Preliminary data from the Internet Usage Survey shows that most of the 563 users reported instances of Internet use interfering with other aspects of their lives, most commonly problems with managing time. A subgroup of users endorsed multiple usage-related problems, including several similar to those found in addictions. Younger users tended to have experienced more problems.
As computer use increases throughout the world, more people are becoming familiar with computers, the Internet, and the roles that both play in their daily lives. There have already been reports of people becoming addicted to the Internet, and we now report on two cases of men who had delusions that they were controlled by and entwined with the Internet. We feel that this phenomenon is not a new diagnostic entity but more likely a new subtype of previously reported psychiatric illnesses. We also discuss the genesis of delusional content and how topics covered in the popular media may influence delusional content.
A factor analytic approach was used to explore possible constructs underlying so-called computer/Internet addiction. A 94-item survey was developed, from which two major and two minor factors were derived. Factor 1 focused on problematic computer-related behaviors in heavy users of the Internet, whereas Factor 2 focused on the usefulness and general purpose nature of computers and the Internet. Factor 3 isolated a combination of use of the Internet for sexual gratification and shyness/introversion, and Factor 4 focused on an absence of problems related to Internet use that were coupled with a mild aversion or a disinterest in this technology. These data support the notion that some individuals have a mixture of obsessive-like characteristics related specifically to their computer/Internet use but that, not surprisingly, they also exhibit a preference for on-line, rather than in-person, interactions.
We sought to examine the demographic and clinical features and psychiatric comorbidity in persons reporting compulsive computer use.
Sixteen men and 5 women were recruited by advertisement and word-of-mouth. All reported excessive computer use that interfered with social or occupational functioning or caused personal distress. The subjects completed structured and semistructured assessments, including a computer version of the Diagnostic Interview Schedule (DIS), the Minnesota Impulsive Disorders Interview, the Personality Diagnostic Questionnaire-Revised (PDQ-R), and a brief version of the Medical Outcome Study Short Form-36 (SF-36).
The typical subject was a 32-year-old single white man with a mean yearly income of $27,000; problem computer use began at age 29 and consumed 27 hours each week. Eleven subjects (52%) reported school or academic problems resulting from their computer use, and 12 (57%) reported that family members had confronted them about it. Thirteen subjects (62%) had tried to cut back on their computer usage. Nine subjects (43%) reported missing work or school owing to their computer use. According to DIS results, 7 subjects (33%) had a lifetime mood disorder, 8 subjects (38%) had a substance use disorder, and 4 subjects (19%) had a lifetime anxiety disorder. According to the PDQ-R results, 11 subjects (52%) met criteria for at least one personality disorder, the most frequent being the borderline, antisocial, and narcissistic types. Impulse-control disorders were also common, particularly compulsive buying. On the SF-36, subjects showed impaired mental health functioning compared with a normative sample.
The results show that persons reporting compulsive computer use suffer substantial psychiatric comorbidity and show evidence of emotional distress. While the disorder appears to be increasing in prevalence, more work is needed to determine its relationship with other disorders and to determine its risk factors, family history, psychosocial complications, and natural history.