Technology-based interventions to address internet addictive behaviors: systematic review

Internet addictive behaviors or internet use disorder result from abnormal internet use, including neglecting responsibilities and experiencing anxiety when offline. This systematic review analyzes technology-based interventions addressing these behaviors, focusing on effectiveness, quality attributes, and user interaction.

A literature search was conducted across three digital libraries and two high-impact journals, focusing on peer-reviewed articles published in Q1 or Q2 journals between January 2022 and June 2024. Studies evaluating digital addiction interventions and user interaction were included, while reviews, editorials, gray literature, and studies without clear intervention descriptions were excluded. The review covered randomized controlled trials, comparative studies, wearables, and mobile health apps. Five research questions were addressed using 17 evaluation criteria. Data extraction answered the subquestions. The review followed Barbara Kitchenham's guidelines, applying a rigorous selection and quality assessment process. Primary inclusion was verified using the Kappa coefficient for inter-rater agreement. The article's quality was evaluated with established criteria. The content adhered to PRISMA guidelines. In total, 11 articles were included.

The review found variability in intervention effectiveness, with personalized, real-time feedback interventions having the greatest impact on reducing screen time and addiction symptoms. Less effective interventions lacked personalization.

The study highlighted the most commonly used technology-based interventions and their effectiveness in reducing symptoms and screen time, as well as improving user satisfaction and treatment adherence. Research gaps were identified, including the need for data on quality characteristics and software requirements for personalizing interventions using new technology.