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Internet addiction: consensus, controversies, and the way ahead
K Chakraborty1, D Basu, K G Vijaya Kumar
1Drug De-addiction and Treatment Centre, Department of Psychiatry, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India.
Summary
Internet addiction is a growing concern with no universal definition, but it involves problematic computer use impacting daily life. Research is ongoing, with proposed diagnostic criteria and treatments, though evidence remains limited.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- The literature on Internet addiction has rapidly expanded.
- Understanding the scope and impact of problematic computer usage is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a comprehensive review of the existing research on Internet addiction.
- To synthesize findings on definitions, etiology, prevalence, and treatment.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive review of scientific literature.
- Searches included electronic databases and manual cross-referencing.
- Literature reviewed spanned from 1970 to 2010.
Main Results:
- No consensus exists on a universal definition, but problematic, time-consuming computer use causing distress or impairment is commonly cited.
- Various etiological models are proposed, including learning theory, cognitive behavioral theory, and neurobiology.
- Prevalence estimates range from 0.3% to 38%, with a higher incidence in young males. Psychiatric comorbidity is frequent, and treatment options lack robust evidence.
Conclusions:
- The American Psychiatric Association recommended including Internet addiction in the DSM-5 appendix, acknowledging its controversial nature.
- This cautious approach may foster more rigorous research in this significant area.
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