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Problematic usage of the internet: Converging and diverging terminologies and constructs
Mehran Zare-Bidoky1, Alexander M Baldacchino2, Zsolt Demetrovics3,4,5
12Neurocognitive Lab, Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Journal of Behavioral Addictions
|October 20, 2025
Summary
Problematic usage of the internet (PUI) research needs a unified umbrella term. A systematic review found most studies on PUI subcategories do not use the overarching PUI term, hindering progress.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Public Health
- Digital Media Studies
Background:
- Problematic usage of the internet (PUI) encompasses diverse behaviors like gaming disorder and social media overuse.
- Lack of consistent terminology impedes research and understanding of PUI's impact.
- PUI is a growing global concern with significant negative consequences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the current terminology used in Problematic usage of the internet (PUI) research.
- To advocate for the establishment of PUI as a unifying umbrella term.
- To encourage synergistic research efforts and improved treatment strategies for PUI.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of 2,497 papers published between 2022-2023.
- Analysis of terminology used in studies focusing on PUI subcategories.
- Comparison of PUI terminology with established frameworks like substance use disorder (SUD).
Main Results:
- Only 13% of reviewed studies on PUI subcategories utilized the overarching Problematic usage of the internet (PUI) term.
- Significant fragmentation in terminology exists across different PUI subcategories.
- The lack of a unified term limits comparative analysis and research synthesis.
Conclusions:
- Establishing Problematic usage of the internet (PUI) as a recognized umbrella term is crucial.
- Unified terminology will facilitate research, comparisons, and the development of effective interventions.
- Refining terminology is essential for the field's relevance as technology evolves.
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