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Summary
Social media addiction is a growing concern, recognized as a distinct disorder despite not being in current classifications. Research highlights attachment styles and mentalization as key factors, suggesting psychodynamic therapies for effective treatment and prevention.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
- Digital Health
Background:
- Social media addiction is an increasing problem in psychotherapeutic practice, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
- It is considered a form of internet addiction with growing clinical relevance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of the current state of research on social media addiction.
- To explore the psychopathology, risk factors, and treatment approaches for social media addiction.
Main Methods:
- A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Researchgate, Connected Papers, and Springer Link (March/April 2024).
- The review summarized research on definition, classification, prevalence, comorbidities, personality traits, ethiopathogenetic factors, and treatments.
Main Results:
- Social media addiction is a distinct disorder, though not yet in official classification systems (can be coded under ICD-11).
- Research is primarily from the last three years, indicating a rapidly evolving field.
- Current treatment approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy, art therapy, and self-help methods.
Conclusions:
- Psychodynamic-based treatment methods are recommended due to the identified importance of attachment styles and mentalization ability.
- Further research into mentalization training for both treatment and prevention of digital addictions is warranted.