Internet addiction among Norwegian adults: a stratified probability sample study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Psychiatry
• Internet Studies

Background:

• The internet is widely used in Norway.
• Understanding problematic internet use is crucial for public health.
• Previous research on internet addiction prevalence is limited in Norway.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of Internet addiction and at-risk Internet use in Norway.
• To identify demographic and socioeconomic factors associated with problematic Internet use.
• To explore the relationship between problematic Internet use and psychological well-being.

Main Methods:

• A stratified probability sample of 3,399 Norwegians aged 16-74 was surveyed in 2007.
• The Young Diagnostic Questionnaire (YDQ) was used to assess Internet addiction and at-risk use.
• Logistic regression analysis was employed to identify associated factors.

Main Results:

• 1.0% of participants met criteria for Internet addiction (YDQ score 5-8).
• An additional 5.2% were classified as at-risk Internet users (YDQ score 3-4).
• Prevalence was highest among young males (16-29 years: 4.1% addicted, 19.0% at-risk).
• Male gender, young age, university education, and poor financial situation were linked to problematic Internet use.
• Increased YDQ scores correlated with more time online and higher rates of sleep disorders, depression, and psychological impairments.

Conclusions:

• Problematic Internet use affects a significant portion of the Norwegian population.
• Young males are a key demographic at higher risk.
• Problematic Internet use is associated with adverse psychological outcomes and increased internet exposure.