Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 28, 2026

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation for Online Gamers
Published on: November 9, 2019
Suicidality, psychopathology, and the internet: Online time vs. online behaviors
Keith M Harris1, Vladan Starcevic2, Jing Ma3
1School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia; School of Psychology, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia.
Abstract:
This study investigated whether several psychopathology variables, including suicidality, could predict the time people spend using the internet (hours online). Next, we examined a specific at-risk population (suicidal individuals) by their online behaviors, comparing suicidal individuals who went online for suicide-related purposes with suicidal individuals who did not go online for suicide-related purposes. An anonymous online sample of 713 (aged 18-71) reported hours online, psychiatric histories, and completed several standardized scales. After accounting for age and education, hierarchical regression modeling showed that the assessed psychopathology variables, including suicidality, did not explain significant variance in hours online. Hours online were better predicted by younger age, greater willingness to develop online relationships, higher perceived social support, higher curiosity, and lower extraversion. Suicidal participants, who did or did not go online for suicide-related purposes, did not differ on hours online. Multiple regression modeling showed that those who went online for suicide-related purposes were likely to be younger, more suicidal, and more willing to seek help from online mental health professionals. These findings revealed that hours online are not a valid indicator of psychopathology. However, studying online behaviors of specific at-risk groups could be informative and useful, including for suicide prevention efforts.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Bullying
Social Foundations of Self IV: Self in Digital Communication
Self-Help Support Groups
Accessibility and Cost-Effectiveness
One of the primary strengths of self-help...
Introduction to Psychological Disorders
Deviant Behavior
Deviance in behavior refers to actions or thought patterns that significantly diverge from societal norms or...
Stress and Mental Health
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...
Depressive Disorders: Etiology
Biological Factors in Depression
Biological predispositions significantly influence the risk of developing depressive disorders. Genetic studies highlight the role of variations in the serotonin transporter...

