internet addiction causes effects and solutions essay

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Internet Addiction: Causes, Effects, And Treatments

What Is An Internet Addiction?

• Signs Of Internet Addiction
• Causes Of Internet Addiction
• Risk Factors
• Effects And Consequences
• Co-Occurring Disorders
• Is Internet Addiction Real?
• Treatment Options
• Find Treatment For Internet Addiction

Internet addiction disorder (IAD) is a type of behavioral addiction that involves compulsive Internet use. People with an Internet addiction may have underlying mental health or substance use issues that may require specialized addiction treatment.

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According to the Pew Research Center, 93 percent of adults in the United States use the Internet. Among teenagers, Internet use is likely even higher.

Internet use has become what some might call a necessity in daily life. For some people, however, Internet use—including social media and online gaming—can become a compulsive and even addictive habit.

While not officially recognized as a disorder in the United States, compulsive Internet use is believed to be fairly common, affecting an estimated 1.5 to 8.2 percent of people in North America.

Read more about the causes and treatment of behavioral addictions

Internet addiction, also known as Internet addiction disorder (IAD), is a behavioral addiction characterized by compulsive, uncontrollable Internet use that interferes with daily life.

Types of Internet addiction include:

• online gambling addiction
• cybersex addiction
• video game addiction
• social media addiction

Regular use of the Internet is common and even necessary for many occupations and academic pursuits. In addition, the Internet is also used to form or maintain social connections.

When a person feels unable to control their Internet use, however, and continues to do so despite negative effects on their life, this may be a sign of a problem.

Signs Of Internet Addiction Disorder

Using the Internet very often, or enjoying being online, are not signs of an addiction by themselves.

An addiction is generally characterized by repetitive behaviors that interfere with a person’s daily life, and that the person feels unable to control.

If you’re concerned about your Internet use, or that of someone else, there are several common signs and behaviors researchers have identified among people with Internet addiction.

Signs and symptoms of Internet addiction might include:

• excessive Internet use (i.e. spending a majority of time online)
• staying online for longer than intended
• lying about the extent of one’s Internet use
• unsuccessful attempts to limit Internet use
• neglecting relationships with others due to Internet use
• experiencing disruptions in work or academic pursuits as a result of Internet use
• experiencing guilt, shame, or frustration about one’s Internet use
• continuing to spend the majority of time online despite negative effects on physical or mental health

Psychological withdrawal symptoms have also been reported by people with compulsive Internet use. For example, feeling very on-edge, hostile, or anxious when unable to access a computer.

Causes Of Internet Addiction Disorder

Increased use of mobile technologies and the Internet for everyday activities is not by itself a cause for Internet addiction.

Although this is an ongoing subject of research, researchers currently believe Internet addiction could be influenced by genetic, biological, and interpersonal factors.

For instance:

• abnormalities in neurochemical processes
• history of mental illness or a personality disorder
• personal or family history of addiction
• Internet access and availability

One theory underlying Internet addiction, the quality of real life theory, suggests that people who experience difficulties in their offline lives may turn to the Internet to escape or avoid reality.

Therefore, people who have stressful lives, or are unhappy with their lives, may be more likely to turn to the Internet to cope.

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Risk Factors For Internet Addiction

Certain types of people are believed to be potentially more vulnerable to developing an Internet addiction compared to the general population, based on proposed risk factors.

Risk factors for Internet addiction include:

• history of mental health disorder
• history of substance misuse
• young age (e.g. child, teenager, young adults)
• genetic predisposition

Effects And Consequences Of Internet Addiction

Living with an addiction to the Internet can be isolating. While many people use the Internet and social media to connect online, some research shows this can actually increase loneliness.

People who become addicted to the Internet may experience distress over time, as their use becomes more compulsive and they become more disconnected from their offline reality.

In addition, other consequences of an Internet addiction might include:

• disrupted sleep patterns
• neglect of personal hygiene
• poor eating habits
• relationship troubles
• decreased work or academic performance
• vision problems
• psychological withdrawal symptoms

Behavioral addictions such as compulsive Internet use can be progressive. This means the effects and consequences of internet addiction may grow more severe with time.

Internet Addiction And Co-Occurring Disorders

It’s not uncommon for a person who compulsively uses the Internet to also have another type of mental health disorder.

Co-occurring disorders might include:

• alcohol use disorder
• drug abuse and addiction
• anxiety disorders
• major depression
• technological addictions (e.g. addiction to smartphones or television)

Internet Addiction And Substance Abuse

Most people who hear the term ‘addiction’ typically think of drug or alcohol addiction. According to some research, substance abuse and behavioral addictions can be connected.

Alcohol use disorder, in particular, is believed to be associated with compulsive Internet use, particularly among college students.

Drugs, alcohol, and the Internet can for some share a similar function: to numb, escape, or manage feelings or realities they’d prefer to avoid.

Is An Internet Addiction Real?

The existence of ‘Internet addiction’ is somewhat controversial. An increasing number of health professionals recognize that Internet addiction is a legitimate problem.

In South Korea, for instance, Internet addiction has been recognized by authorities as a national health problem. In the Middle East, Internet addiction is also believed to be fairly widespread.

Researchers in the United States have advocated for the inclusion of Internet addiction disorder within the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), which is used to diagnose mental health and related conditions.

While it’s not currently recognized as an independent disorder, Internet addiction is a growing specialist area among mental health treatment providers who recognize its detrimental impact.

Treatment For Internet Addiction

Seeking treatment for Internet addiction may be necessary for people who feel unable to reduce their Internet use on their own.

The types of treatments recommended for Internet addiction can vary according to a person’s medical history, mental health history, and other personal factors.

Treatment options for Internet addiction might include:

• behavioral therapy
• mental health counseling
• group therapy
• family therapy
• digital detoxification (detox)
• self-help groups

Treatment may focus on helping a person overcome their compulsive Internet use by addressing its connection to emotions, thought patterns, and other behavioral tendencies.

For people with co-occurring substance use issues, a dual diagnosis treatment program through a substance abuse treatment center may also be recommended.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment For Internet Addiction And Substance Abuse

Dual diagnosis treatment is a type of treatment that aims to address all co-occurring mental health issues a person experiences, such as substance misuse and compulsive Internet use.

Dual diagnosis treatment can be effective for addictions, as well as mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, or a history of trauma.

Finding Treatment For Internet Addiction

If you or a loved one is struggling with compulsive Internet use, one of our addiction resource specialists may be able to help.

By calling our helpline, we can:

• identify appropriate treatment options
• verify your insurance
• find a treatment program that meets your needs

Call us today to find treatment for internet addiction , including dual diagnosis rehab and mental health treatment options.

Written by the Addiction Resource Editorial Staff

Addiction Resource aims to provide only the most current, accurate information in regards to addiction and addiction treatment, which means we only reference the most credible sources available.

These include peer-reviewed journals, government entities and academic institutions, and leaders in addiction healthcare and advocacy. Learn more about how we safeguard our content by viewing our editorial policy.

• American Psychiatric Association (APA)—New Research Press Briefing: Internet Addiction: Review of Neuroimaging Studies https://www.psychiatry.org/newsroom/news-releases/internet-addiction-review-of-neuroimaging-studies
• NPR News—Hooked On The Internet, South Korean Teens Go Into Digital Detox https://www.npr.org/2019/08/13/748299817/hooked-on-the-internet-south-korean-teens-go-into-digital-detox
• Pew Research Center—Demographics of Internet and Home Broadband Usage in the United States https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/fact-sheet/internet-broadband/
• U.S. National Library of Medicine—Internet Addiction: A Brief Summary of Research and Practice https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3480687/
• U.S. National Library of Medicine—Internet Addiction Prevalence and Quality of (Real) Life: A Meta-Analysis of 31 Nations Across Seven World Regions https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4267764/
• U.S. National Library of Medicine: PubMed—The association between harmful alcohol use and Internet addiction among college students: comparison of personality https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19335391/
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Internet Addiction

Reviewed by Psychology Today Staff

More a popular idea than a scientifically valid concept, internet addiction is the belief that people can become so dependent on using their mobile phones or other electronic devices that they lose control of their own behavior and suffer negative consequences. The harm is alleged to stem both from direct involvement with the device—something that has never been proven—and from the abandonment of other activities, such as studying, face-to-face socializing, or sleep.

• What Is Internet Addiction?
• Signs of Excessive Internet Use
• Internet Use and Mental Health
• What to Do About Internet Addiction

There is much debate in the scientific community about whether excessive internet use can be classified as a true addiction. In an addiction to substances such as drugs or alcohol , consumption ceases being pleasurable but continues and is difficult to escape even as the likelihood of harm to the body and life mounts. In the case of internet use, there is no clear point at which being online becomes non-pleasurable for most individuals. In part for this reason, behavioral "addictions," including using the internet, remain controversial: Experts debate where the line should be drawn between passionate absorption in any activity—say, devoting a lot of time to playing the cello or reading books—and being stuck in a rut of compulsivity that stops being useful and detrimentally affects other areas of life.

In preparing the current edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders , psychiatrists and other experts debated whether to include internet addiction. They decided that there was not enough scientific evidence to support inclusion at this time, although the DSM-5 does recognize Internet Gaming Disorder as a condition warranting further study.

Most often, the word “addiction” is used in the colloquial sense. Common Sense Media finds that 59 percent of parents “feel” their kids are addicted to their mobile devices—just as 27 percent of the parents feel that they themselves are. Sixty-nine percent of parents say they check their own devices at least hourly, as do 78 percent of teens. Spending a lot of time on the internet is increasingly considered normal behavior, especially for adolescents. Much of their social activity has simply moved online. Like any new technology, the computer has changed the way everyone lives, learns, and communicates. It is possible to be online far too much, even though this does not constitute a true addiction in the eyes of most clinicians. 

Internet content creators leverage the ways in which the brain works to rally consumers '  attention . One simple example: A perceived threat activates your fight-or-flight response, a part of the brain known as the Reticular Activating System mobilizes the body for action. So online content exploits potential dangers—violence, natural disaster, disease, etc.—to attract and hold your attention.  

Problematic or excessive internet use can indeed pose a serious problem. It can displace such important needs as sleep, homework, and exercise, often a source of friction between parents and teens. It can have negative effects on real-life relationships. 

The idea of internet addiction is a particular concern among parents, who worry about the harmful effects of screen time and often argue about device use with their children. According to a 2019 survey conducted by Common Sense Media, children aged 8 to 12 now spend 5 hours a day on digital devices, while teens clock more than 7 hours—not including schoolwork. Teen screen time is slowly ticking upward, and most teens take their phones to bed with them.

Whether classified as an addiction or not, heavy use of technology can be detrimental. It can impair focus, resulting in poor performance at school or work. Excessive internet consumption also makes it more difficult for people to communicate normally or to regulate their emotions. They spend less time on non-internet-related activities at the cost of relationships with friends, family, and significant others.

One way to assess whether you’re using the internet too much is to ask yourself if your basics needs (or your child’s, if they are the concern) are being met. Do you sleep enough, eat healthy, get enough exercise, enjoy the outdoors, and spend time socializing in-person? The real harm of screen time may lie in missed opportunities for growth and connection.

Excessive screen time can be particularly harmful to a developing brain: It decreases focus and attention span while increasing the need for more constant stimulation and instant gratification. Those who use the internet excessively may feel anxious if their access to their device gets restricted. They tend to be more impulsive and struggle to recognize facial and nonverbal cues in real life.

Internet use becomes a problem when people start substituting online connections for real, physical relationships. The effects of technology on relationships include increased isolation and loneliness . Defaulting to online communication also denies us the opportunity to hear someone’s voice and read their facial cues in-person; it can also lead to poorer outcomes and miscommunication. Experts recommend that we save the important conversations for when we can be face-to-face for just this reason.   

Online content has been designed to elicit specific “checking habits,” which can result in distraction and poor performance at school or work. Constantly checking your smartphone or another device can also lead to relationship-sabotaging behaviors, like phubbing (snubbing loved ones for the instant gratification of checking the internet on your device). As more time is spent online, less is devoted to the natural pleasures of everyday life.  

Excessive use of the internet is known to negatively impact a person’s mental health. It has been associated with mental health issues, such as loneliness, depression , anxiety , and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Research suggests that people are likely to use the internet more as an emotional crutch to cope with negative feelings instead of addressing them in proactive and healthy ways.

This is a subject of debate at present. While internet addiction is not in the DSM-V, it is clearly a behavior that negatively impacts mental health and cognition for many, and many struggle to cut back on their time online. The term "addiction" is often used as a shorthand for, “My child spends a lot of time on social media , texting friends, or playing video games, and I’m worried how it will affect his or her future development and success.” At the same time, many people label it a behavioral addiction, engaging reward circuitry seen in other problematic behaviors such as gambling.

Time online is also sometimes used as an escape from boredom or relief from loneliness or other unpleasantness. Occasionally, excessive screen time masks a state of depression or anxiety. In such cases, digital engagement becomes an attempt to remedy the feelings of distress caused by true mental health disorders that could likely benefit from professional or other attention.

Given how much people rely on technology to complete everyday tasks, from online schooling to paying bills to ordering food to keeping in touch with loved ones who are far away, it isn’t feasible to stop using the internet altogether. In most cases, the goal should be to reduce the time spent online. Many of those who’ve struggled to balance internet use with other activities recommend such simple “digital detox” measures as leaving devices in the kitchen or any other room but the bedroom at night. Cognitive behavioral therapy can also help address addiction-like behaviors, like constant checking habits. 

Amidst growing concerns about the increased amount of time people are spending online, the “digital detox” has become a popular way to cope. A digital detox involves temporarily abstaining from using devices, like computers and smartphones. Someone may go on a digital detox in order to re-engage with a passion or activity, focus more on in-person interactions, or break free of a pattern of compulsive or excessive use. Digital detoxes also allow more time for self-care that a person may have been neglecting in order to stay plugged into the internet, which can lead to lower stress levels and better sleep.

There is no one-size-fits-all answer. You may want to digitally detox if you notice that you’re experiencing sleep disruptions due to staying up late or waking up early to be on a device, if the internet is making you feel depressed, or if the constant need to be connected causes you stress. Other signs may include feeling anxious if you can’t locate your phone, having FOMO ( fear of missing out) if you’re not checking the internet or social media, struggling to focus without (or due to) constant checking behaviors, etc.

Unlike other detoxes where the goal is to abstain completely, digital detoxes are more flexible and tailored to the individual. It may not be possible due to work or personal obligations to shut your devices off entirely for long periods of time. If it’s time for a digital detox , there are some strategies you can try: Block off non-screen time during the day and/or night, set a “digital curfew” for using devices at night or on weekends, specify digital-free spaces in your home (e.g., the bedroom or dinner table), and use the additional time in fulfilling ways (e.g., socialize, rekindle old interests, volunteer, etc.).

Use the internet and social media with purpose; set time limits on your unstructured use to avoid going down long and unfulfilling rabbit holes. Take advantage of the extra free time you suddenly have. Spend more time socializing in-person and volunteer. Rekindle old interests or take up a new hobby. Go outside. Pay more attention to how you are feeling, both physically and emotionally.

Parents may feel powerless to influence their children’s reading habits. But, in reality, they can dramatically impact kids’ reading fluency, level, and comprehension.

A Personal Perspective: Between living in the land of the Internet and being trapped in the world of COVID, we have become isolated from each other.

Personal Perspective: I felt anxiety without Wi-Fi at the airport, but being unplugged for two hours was not that bad. Here are a few things I tried while offline.

Social media never stops. It's easy for a child to start spending more and more time on the internet. Parents can help establish guidelines for their child's online activities.

Is viewing suicide-related social media content associated with rates of suicide or self-harm?

As the world becomes more and more digitalized, countries must learn from each other about the best ways to combat digital media overdependence.

Experts are alarmed about social media use and its impact on teen mental health. Teens who overuse social media may negatively impact their developing brains.

The US Surgeon General recommends that social media come with a warning about its impact on children’s mental health.

Turning off your phone notifications is good for you and your kids. Try intermittent phone fasting for a few days and see if you agree!

Criticisms of evidence suggesting causal relationships between social media and mental health problems have some scientific merit, but clinically are wide of the mark.

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Home — Essay Samples — Information Science and Technology — Internet — The Impact of Internet Addiction in Teenagers

The Impact of Internet Addiction in Teenagers

• Categories: Impact of Technology Internet

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Words: 590 |

Published: Sep 5, 2023

Words: 590 | Page: 1 | 3 min read

Table of contents

Causes and triggers of internet addiction, consequences of internet addiction, prevention and intervention strategies, professional support and mental health awareness.

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Understanding Internet Addiction

You’ve probably heard that we’re all spending too much time on our phones and computers. The average American stares at a screen — usually one connected to the internet — for 11 hours a day, according to a recent Nielsen report .

As the internet becomes increasingly entwined in our lives, some experts have raised concerns around the concept of people having an internet addiction.

Internet addiction, often referred to as internet addiction disorder (IAD), isn’t a recognized condition in the most recent edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).

Still, many psychologists argue that excessive internet use should be treated the same as other types of addiction.

As with other types of addiction, there’s no single cause of internet addition. Several factors can play a role in the development of addiction. These factors vary from person to person.

Is it actually an addiction?

Everyone has things they love to do regularly. There’s generally not much to worry about in having habits that don’t cause harm or distress.

For example, playing video games for a few hours on Saturdays or regularly scoping the sale rack at Nordstrom doesn’t mean you have a video game or shopping addiction.

But where is the line between a habit and addiction? It’s tricky:

• A habit is something you regularly do, usually because you’ve practiced it or incorporated it into your routine. Doing the dishes after dinner is an example of a “good” habit. But habits can also involve things like chewing your nails when you’re stressed.
• An addiction involves engaging in a behavior or consuming a substance because you feel a reward in doing so. With an addiction, you might know the behavior or substance is harmful to you, but you’re unable to stop.

If you like to surf Reddit for 20 minutes while you drink your morning coffee, that’s likely just a habit.

If you regularly find yourself unable to stop after 20 minutes and end up making yourself late for work or keeping up with important tasks, you might be dealing with something closer to an addiction.

What are the symptoms?

Experts have conducted many studies in an effort to pinpoint what internet addiction looks like.

According to a 2012 study , you may be experiencing an internet addiction if you spend long stretches of time (defined as “many hours”) online for nonwork-related activities, such as browsing the web or playing video games, and notice any of the below symptoms:

• sudden changes in mood
• intensive worry about what’s happening online when you’re not there
• not being able to control how much time you’re spending online
• increasing your time online to achieve a certain feeling or mood
• withdrawal symptoms (irritability, physical aches, depression) when not reaching the desired amount of time online
• continued online behavior and consumption despite conflict with loved ones, or consequences at work or school

What causes it?

There’s no single cause of internet addiction.

Several factors can play a role, including:

• underlying mental health conditions, including anxiety and depression
• environmental factors

Some experts have suggested that some people are predisposed to addictive behaviors because they don’t have enough dopamine receptors, or they aren’t making the right balance of serotonin with dopamine. These are two neurotransmitters that play a big role in your mood.

I’m concerned about my internet use — any tips?

If you’re worried you may have an internet addiction, there are a few things you can do to help yourself before seeking professional treatment.

Online meditation options

Read our review of the best online meditation options to find the right fit for you.

Set a timer on your phone and computer

Some smartphones have built-in settings you can adjust to block or limit your time on certain apps. If you’re spending six hours a day on Facebook, for example, set your timer to block use after a certain point in the day.

Engage with your community

If you’re spending a lot of time online because you’re feeling lonely or disconnected from the world, now is a great time to join a neighborhood book club or volunteer group.

You’ll meet new people and contribute to something bigger than yourself for a few hours a week, which can help you feel less isolated.

Being online for long stretches can tire out your brain. Rest and restore your mental space by meditating for a few minutes a day. There are many free guided meditations to get you started on Spotify and iTunes.

What does professional treatment look like?

There are several options for tackling internet addiction with the help of a professional.

Individual therapy

You may decide that talk therapy on a one-on-one basis with a therapist is the best option. This will mean meeting regularly for a session to you talk through:

• your addiction and recovery process
• the emotions and habits that are coming up as a result
• the goals you’ve set for yourself along this road

Online therapy options

Read our review of the best online therapy options to find the right fit for you.

Group therapy

Recognizing that you’re not alone in your recovery is a huge first step. By going to group therapy , you’ll connect and talk with people working through the same issues you are.

Anonymous support groups

Much like Narcotics Anonymous or Alcoholics Anonymous, substance use disorder groups can help you talk through your behaviors while keeping you accountable on the path to recovery.

Search for local internet addiction disorder groups near you to find either an in-person or virtual meeting.

Inpatient and outpatient treatment

Many substance use disorder clinics now offer programs for internet addiction. You can search for a clinic near you or talk to your primary healthcare provider for recommendations.

How can I help a loved one?

Watching addiction play out in a loved one can be extremely difficult. If you’re concerned about someone’s internet use, there are a few things you can do.

First and foremost, reach out and let them know you love and support them. Clearly and objectively communicate your worries and concerns around their internet usage, then talk together about what may be truly affecting them.

Addiction often fuel isolation and shame, especially due to its stigma. A huge part of recovery is learning to alleviate those emotions.

As you’re helping your loved one, remember to take time to care for yourself as well.

Consider therapy, either group or individual, and join a support group in your local community. Together you can overcome addiction.

How we reviewed this article:

• Cash H, et al. (2012). Internet addiction: A brief summary of research and practice. DOI: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3480687/
• Grant JE, et al. (2011). Introduction to behavioral addictions. DOI: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3164585/
• Kirby LG, et al. (2011). Contributions of serotonin in addiction vulnerability. DOI:   https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuropharm.2011.03.022
• Stanford Medicine. (2006). Internet addiction: Stanford study seeks to define whether it's a problem [Press release].   https://med.stanford.edu/news/all-news/2006/10/internet-addiction-stanford-study-seeks-to-define-whether-its-a-problem.html
• Tao R, et al. (2010). Proposed diagnostic criteria for internet addiction. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1360-0443.2009.02828.x

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What is Internet Addiction? What are the different types?

Home > What is Process Addiction? > What is Internet Addiction? What are the different types?

Learn about the different kinds and signs of internet addiction as well as what types of treatment can address the harmful effects of internet addiction.

Knowing what internet addiction is and what is not can be hard. Going online is now a regular part of life. The internet can help people travel, learn and talk with others. People with shared interests can chat online and make new relationships.

Sadly, some people use the internet to escape from their daily life. Others use it to engage in risky behavior. Even people who surf safely may suffer when their internet use becomes uncontrollable.

Growing internet misuse has ledmental healthexperts to propose adding internet addiction disorder to the DSM because internet use can mimic drug addiction in some people. Those people can benefit from care plans modeled on substance abuse treatment .

Types of Internet Addictions

There are many types of internet addiction. The internet allows people to stream videos, play video games and use social media. Each of these can be addictive. Because the internet has so much to offer, addiction types vary from cybersexual to gaming.

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Cybersexual

Jokes about internet porn are common. However, some people develop aporn addiction. Porn is now more accessible than ever. A person can easily find it online in the privacy of their own home.

The vast sexual imagery seen online can have a strong effect on the brain. Watching porn can have the same effect on the brain as using drugs does. The effect canchangethe brain.

Some online sexual addictions can be dangerous. People can end up in chat rooms with sexual predators or underage people. Other people may use internet chat rooms or sites to find new sexual partners.

Net Compulsions

Net compulsions resemble symptoms of OCD . People with OCD might constantly check to see if a door is locked or if the oven is off. People with net compulsions might check social media all the time or constantly refresh their email inbox.

People may repeatedly check news, weather or financial sites. Having an interest in these topics is fine, but it can end up taking time and attention away from school or work. If online shopping is involved, people can end up spending lots of money.

Cyber Relationships

Social media is a big part of the internet. Social media can keep people connected and updated on what’s happening in the world. However, using social media too much can have the opposite effect . Using the sites too much can isolate people from their real-world relationships.

Many people turn to social media to help address a mental disorder. Chatting with people can become a portal to escape anxiety or self-doubt. People seek recognition on social media and doing so can easily become addictive.

People who are addicted to cyber relationships are vulnerable to irrational and impulsive behavior with those around them in their offline life.

People can becomeaddicted to video games.Online gaming is the main cause ofgaming addiction.

Players often praise video games for being “addictive.” There is a difference between using the term to describe a game that’s hard to stop playing because it’s so fun andidentifying a real addiction. Gamer culture celebrates binging games for long periods. Many people healthily handle gaming by either finishing the game, losing interest or replacing game time with other hobbies.

Some people struggle with their game time. As gaming becomes their main interest, people with gaming addiction may stop going to school or work. Some may stop eating or bathing. In one case, a couple became so absorbed in an online game that their baby died of neglect .

Information Seeking

This type of addiction can happen unexpectedly because curiosity is encouraged in kids. Life-long learning promotes health and longevity .

It is not the nature of looking up info online that is the issue. The main issue is that doing so amplifies anxiety and overthinking.

Even basic decisions can get complicated. Keeping up with new facts can replace important tasks.

Signs and Symptoms of Internet Addiction

a growing amount of events. Internet addiction is defined in part by how long it lasts.

Most doctors test if an internet addiction exists by using a formula to those used to detect agambling disorder. An addiction expert labeledsix symptomsthat indicate a behavioral addiction:

• Salience: when one activity becomes more important than others
• Mood modification: using an activity to fix or avoid a bad mood
• Tolerance: needing more of an activity for the desired effect
• Withdrawal: experiencing unpleasant effects after stopping an activity
• Conflict: having periods of inner and outer conflict as a result of the activity
• Relapse: resuming an activity after avoiding it for a time

Internet addiction is a major concern in China and other Asian countries. Chinese researchers have studied it and in addition to the first four symptoms already listed, theyadded:

• Lack of control: having unsuccessful attempts to control or reduce internet use
• Loss of interest in other activities: ignoring other important activities in favor of internet use
• Continuing despite consequences: not changing internet use despite having problems from internet use
• Denial or minimization: hiding or lying about the amount of time spent on the internet

Internet addiction is a problem when a person regularly has negative side effects from their internet use.

Causes of Internet Addiction

Internet use triggers a sense of reward in the brain that leads to more use. A few people are very sensitive to this effect and it is why the people who go online day-to-day for work or school don’t ever develop signs of an addiction.

Some of the causes of this addiction can include using the internet too much as a kid and not having a parent watch online use. People with a recent traumatic event, high stress levels or a substance use disorder all face a high risk of having this type of addiction.Other risk factorsare:

• Having a mental health condition
• Having poor moods
• Having limited offline social time
• Family conflict

Most of these factors point to an attempt to manage or self-medicate stress or discomfort.

Effects of Internet Addiction

Researchshows that internet addiction affects the brain. People who spend a long time online may exhibit:

• Dopamine surges that resemble ones caused by substance use
• Abnormal amounts of gray and white matter in the brain
• Altered brain activity regarding impulse control and motor coordination

Some experts think that chronic, heavy internet usecan alter a personalityand make people more aggressive, vain or impulsive.

Even people without internet addiction can be changed by regular internet use. Many people have said that their internet use has altered their attention span , so it’s harder for them to remember information. Others find they can’t read deeply and scan or skim for key points instead.

The effects of internet addiction can also be physical. Spending more time online leads to more time sitting and physical impacts like:

• Weight gain
• Stiff limbs
• Back or shoulder pain
• Poor vision
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Bad posture

In general, people with internet addiction are more likely to remain inactive for long periods of time. People can avoid the negative health impacts of internet use by taking regular breaks from use and engaging in physical activity.

Internet Addiction Withdrawal

Originally, “withdrawal” referred to the changes caused by the end of substance use. Internet addictions do not cause withdrawal symptoms like drugs and alcohol do, but they can still cause withdrawal symptoms.

In this case, withdrawal mainly affects mood and cognition. People who go online regularly may feel bored and anxious when they are not online. Other symptoms include:

• Depressed mood
• High heart rate

In one extreme case, a person who spenteight hours per day playing the same online gamefor over two years experienced psychosis after stopping internet use.

Internet Addiction Statistics

Statistics reveal that this issue is a growing problem around the world. In the United States and Europe, 1.5% to 8.2% of people live with this addiction. One study found that10%of Chinese youth have this addiction, while another study found that as many as27%already do. A global survey indicated that6%of people globally have an internet addiction of some kind.

Internet Addiction and Co-Occurring Disorders

Internet addiction and depression are common to see together, as are internet addiction and anxiety.A Korean studyfound that people with this disorder are twice as likely to have an issue with alcohol use , be five times more likely to have an anxiety disorder and be six times more likely to be depressed or have PTSD than people who use the internet moderately.

Each disorder can cause the other. People with depression or anxiety are likely to become socially distant and isolated, making the internet their only social outlet. This effect raises the chance of an addiction forming. Also, people who use the internet too much can develop anxiety and depression as a response to stress caused by their overuse.

Research suggeststhat substance use disorders often precede internet addiction, especially in young adults and teens , but the reverse can also be true. People who use the internet for long periods may start using one or more substances to enhance their internet use and remain awake and engaged online with others.

Alcohol use disorders are very common for people with internet addiction. Alcohol can make talking to people easier, and both alcohol and internet use can temporarily soothe feelings of isolation and anxiety.

Treatment for Internet Addiction Disorder

Fortunately, recovery is possible with the right care and help. Like people with substance use disorders, people with internet addiction can find help in peer support groups that provide help while reducing social isolation and shame or alienation. Internet addiction support groups include Online Gamers Anonymous, Computer Gaming Addicts Anonymous, reSTART and local groups run by treatment centers.

Internet addiction treatmentcan consist of outpatient or inpatient treatment at a facility that provides services for people with internet addictions. The same care plans that work for substance abuse also work for behavioral addictions. For example, CBT can help people reduce their internet use and maintain this change over time . In an integrated care plan, people who haveco-occurring internet and substance addictioncan address both at the same time.

If a substance addiction developed while trying to cope with an internet addiction, contact The Recovery Village . Call to speak with a representative about how professional treatment can help.

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Editor - Camille Renzoni

Cami Renzoni is a creative writer and editor for The Recovery Village. As an advocate for behavioral health, Cami is certified in mental health first aid and encourages people who face substance use disorders to ask for the help they deserve. Read more

Medically Reviewed By - Stephanie Hairston, MSW

Stephanie Hairston received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and English from Pomona College and her Master of Social Work degree from New York University. Read more

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Prevention of Internet addiction: A systematic review

Petra vondráčková, roman gabrhelík.

• Author information
• Article notes
• Copyright and License information

Corresponding author: Petra Vondráčková; Department of Addictology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Apolinářská 4, 120 00 Praha 2, Czech Republic; Phone: +420 774 649 099; Fax: +420 224 965 035; E-mail: [email protected]

Received 2016 Sep 2; Revised 2016 Oct 18; Accepted 2016 Nov 28; Issue date 2016 Dec 1.

This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium for non-commercial purposes, provided the original author and source are credited.

Background and aims

Out of a large number of studies on Internet addiction, only a few have been published on the prevention of Internet addiction. The aim of this study is provide a systematic review of scientific articles regarding the prevention of Internet addiction and to identify the relevant topics published in this area of interest.

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were adopted. The EBSCO, ProQuest Central, and PubMed databases were searched for texts published in English and Spanish between January 1995 and April 2016. A total of 179 original texts were obtained. After de-duplication and topic-relevance review, 108 texts were systematically classified and subjected to descriptive analysis and subsequent content analysis.

The results of the content analysis yielded the following thematic areas: (a) target groups, (b) the improvement of specific skills, (c) program characteristics, and (d) environmental interventions.

Discussion and conclusion

Literature on the prevention of Internet addiction is scarce. There is an urgent need to introduce and implement new interventions for different at-risk populations, conduct well-designed research, and publish data on the effectiveness of these interventions. Developing prevention interventions should primarily target children and adolescents at risk of Internet addiction but also parents, teachers, peers, and others who are part of the formative environment of children and adolescents at risk of Internet addiction. Newly designed interventions focused on Internet addiction should be rigorously evaluated and the results published.

Keywords: prevention, Internet addiction, online gaming addiction, Internet use, interventions

Introduction

Internet addiction can be defined as overuse of the Internet leading to impairment of an individual’s psychological state (both mental and emotional), as well as their scholastic or occupational and social interactions ( Beard & Wolf, 2001 ). Since its emergence in the scientific literature, this phenomenon has been accompanied by controversy concerning its definition and conceptualization. There is considerable discussion as to whether people are addicted to the Internet itself or on the Internet, specifically to the activities realized in the Internet environment, and whether to use the term Internet addiction or addictions to specific online activities such as online gambling, online gaming, or cybersex addiction ( Davis, 2001 ; Griffiths, Kuss, Billieux, & Pontes, 2016 ; Pontes, Kuss, & Griffiths, 2015 ; Starcevic, 2013 ). In this paper, we use the term Internet addiction to denote excessive use of the Internet and addictive behavior related to the Internet.

In studies using representative general population samples, the prevalence rates range from 1% in Germany ( Rumpf et al., 2014 ) to 3.4% in the Czech Republic ( Šmahel, Vondráčková, Blinka, & Godoy-Etcheverry, 2009 ). Internet addiction prevalence rates among adolescents tend to be the highest, ranging from 0.8% in Italy to 26.7% in Hong Kong ( Kuss, Griffiths, Karila, & Billieux, 2014 ). These numbers are rather indicative because Internet addiction rates vary according to which definitions of Internet addiction, assessment tool, and cut-off are used ( Douglas et al., 2008 ; Kuss, Griffiths, et al., 2014 ; Vondráčková, 2015 ; Vondráčková & Šmahel, 2015 ).

The attention of researchers has focused on the treatment of Internet addiction and some treatment studies have been published in recent years; however, the majority of them are of rather poor quality ( King, Delfabbro, Griffiths, & Gradisar, 2011 ). Very few studies report on the prevention of Internet addiction and this area has only recently started to receive more attention from researchers. Clinicians, educators, and policymakers agree that treatment strategies for tackling the Internet addiction problem need to be accompanied by prevention strategies that address risk factors before addiction evolves into a more serious form ( Kwon, 2011 ; Yu & Shek, 2013 ).

Prevention science represents a systematic transdisciplinary approach to the study of (a) etiology and epidemiology of various preventable health and social problems and (b) intervention and research designs, efficiency and effectiveness, implementation of effective interventions at the individual, social and societal systems of the family, education, workplace, community, in the areas of social welfare, planning, environment, urban design, and (fiscal) policy ( Gabrhelík, 2016 ; SPAN, 2015 ; SPR, n.d. ). This definition is framing the general scope of scientific approach to prevention that is further specified by other key terms and concepts (e.g., levels of prevention; universal, selective, indicated, early diagnostics and intervention; specific target groups; prevention models, etc.)

The objectives of this study were to review relevant literature on the prevention of Internet addiction published between January 1995 and April 2016 and to perform content analysis in order to identify relevant topics which are discussed in this context in the literature utilizing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The unique contribution of this paper lies in the fact that this is, to the best of our knowledge, the first review focused on the prevention of Internet addiction.

A systematic search of research texts was conducted following the PRISMA recommendations ( Higgins & Green, 2011 ; Moher, Liberati, Tetzlaff, Altman, & The PRISMA Group, 2009 ). The protocol for this review was not previously registered.

Eligibility criteria

In this systematic review, all relevant papers having the prevention of Internet addiction as a main topic or as at least partially topic were included. Further criteria adopted were (a) publication between January 1995 and April 2016, (b) written in English or Spanish language, and (c) published as journal articles, book chapters, and original manuscripts. Additionally, the texts where prevention was only a general topic were excluded.

Information sources and search

Studies were identified by searching relevant papers via EBSCO, ProQuest Central, and PubMed databases, employing the following search terms: “prevent*,” “interven*,” “program*,” “parent*,” “school*,” “family*,” “peer*,” “communit*” in combination with “Internet addiction,” “gaming addiction,” “online gambling,” “cybersex addiction,” “online sex addiction,” “Internet sex addiction,” “Facebook addiction,” “social network addiction,” “compulsive Internet use,” “excessive Internet use,” “problem Internet use,” and “pathological Internet use.”

Selection and data collection process

Using the above criteria, a total of 179 original texts (see Figure  1 ) were obtained. After de-duplication and topic-relevance review of all the abstracts, 145 texts were selected for further analysis. Finally, the texts where prevention was only a general topic were excluded. The remaining 108 texts were further systematically classified and subjected to descriptive analysis. The texts included in this study were divided into two categories. In the first category, we analyzed all of the 100 texts that had the prevention of Internet addiction as a partial topic. The majority of them focused on research in some areas of Internet addiction, for example, prevalence or correlates of Internet addiction ( Ang, Chong, Chye, & Huan, 2012 ; Huang et al., 2009 ; Park, Kim, & Cho, 2008 ). Typical recommendations regarding the prevention of Internet addiction were based on their specific results, such as “These findings emphasize the importance of prevention and early intervention work with early adolescents and their parents with respect to adolescent loneliness and generalized problematic Internet use ( Ang et al., 2012 ).” These were often part of the abstract, discussion, or conclusion sections. The remaining texts were reviews or theoretical papers, again with general recommendations for the prevention of Internet addiction. For the purpose of this study, we included these recommendations regarding Internet addiction prevention in the analysis.

The PRISMA flow diagram of the selection process

In the second category, we analyzed eight texts that had the prevention of Internet addiction as their main topic. Six of them (Table  1 ) described and/or evaluated specific prevention interventions ( Busch, de Leeuw, & Schrijvers, 2013 ; de Leeuw, de Bruijn, de Weert-van Oene, & Schrijvers, 2010 ; Korkmaz & Kiran-Esen, 2012 ; Shek, Ma, & Sun, 2011 ; Turel, Mouttapa, & Donato, 2015 ; Walther, Hanewinkel, & Morgenstern, 2014 ). For the purpose of the study, were extracted data relevant to these areas: (a) country in which were data collected, (b) key characteristics of the participants (sample size and segment of the population assessed), (c) intervention characteristic, (d) risk of bias in individual studies, and (e) methodological features (objectives, assessment methods, type of study, and design).

Texts describing prevention interventions

Note . CIUS: Compulsive Internet Use Scale; IUHS: Internet Use Habit Scale; IAS: Internet Addiction Scale; KFN-CSAS-II: Video Game Dependency Scale; n.a.: not available.

For assessing risk of bias was used the Cochrane Collaboration´s tool for assessing risk of bias ( Higgins & Green, 2011 ). The following risks of bias were observed: (a) selection bias (sequence generation and allocation sequence concealment), (b) performance bias (blinding of participants and personnel), (c) detection bias (blinding of outcome assessment), (d) attrition bias (incomplete outcome data), and (e) reporting bias (selective outcome reporting).

The subsequent content analysis of all texts was focused on the identification of relevant thematic areas and their content. One reviewer (PV) screened the titles/abstracts and analyzed the full texts of the identified texts.

This article does not contain any studies with human participants or animals performed by any of the authors.

On the basis of the content analysis of these 108 texts, we identified four basic areas of interest: (a) target groups, (b) the improvement of specific skills, (c) program characteristics, and (d) environmental interventions.

Target groups

The target groups in our texts are defined on the levels of (a) universal prevention and (b) selective and indicated prevention.

Universal prevention

On the level of universal prevention, we identified four main target groups for prevention interventions: (a) children and adolescents, (b) college students, (c) parents and those close to them, and (d) gambling employees and employees with regular access to the Internet.

The majority of researchers (e.g.,  Jang & Ji, 2012 ; Lan & Lee, 2013 ) are in agreement that preventive interventions should focus mainly on children and adolescents. Children and adolescents are in their formative years, when values and standards develop, and they have the highest prevalence rates of Internet addiction ( Šmahel et al., 2009 ). For this reason, prevention programs should be implemented in the school environment, especially in elementary school settings that are often on the front line of the identification of potentially life-threatening behaviors ( Jang & Ji, 2012 ; Lan & Lee, 2013 ). The South Korean government launched its plan for Internet addiction prevention and treatment with components starting with prevention interventions even with preschool children ( Romano, 2014 ). College students are the second group on which Internet addiction prevention interventions should be focused ( Lin, Ko, & Wu, 2011 ) because of the high prevalence rates (e.g.,  Chou & Hsiao, 2000 ; Huang et al., 2009 ; Lin et al., 2011 ) and easy accessibility ( Anwar & Seemamunaf, 2015 ). In addition to children, adolescents, and college students, attention should also be paid to their close formative surroundings, especially the family, the school environment, and extracurricular activities (e.g.,  Lin & Gau, 2013 ; Park et al, 2008 ). Young ( 2010 ), on the other hand, stresses the potential for the prevention of Internet addiction at work for employees with regular access to the Internet because regular access to the Internet may be a risk factor in the development of Internet addiction. Gray, Tom, Laplante, and Shaffer ( 2015 ) describe responsible gambling training programs, which train online gambling employees about gambling and gambling-related problems.

Selective and indicated prevention

At the level of selective and indicated prevention, there are at-higher-risk individuals because of the presence of specific biopsychosocial factors and factors related to Internet use patterns. The risk factors (or characteristics) found in the literature relate to: (a)  psychopathological factors : ADHD, depressive and anxiety disorders, and social phobia (e.g.,  Alavi et al., 2012 ; Ang et al., 2012 ; Ko, Yen, Chen, Yeh, & Yen, 2009 ; Lin et al., 2011 ; Oh, 2003 ; Yen et al., 2008 ), substance use ( Ko, Yen, Yen, Chen, & Chen, 2012 ), or obsessive compulsive symptoms ( Jang, Hwang, & Choi, 2008 ); (b)  personality characteristics : hyperactivity and impulsivity ( Wu et al., 2013 ), high novelty seeking and low reward dependence ( Dalbudak et al., 2015 ; Ko et al., 2006 ), introversion, low conscientiousness and agreeableness and high neuroticism/low emotional stability ( Kuss, Shorter, van Rooij, van de Mheen, & Griffiths, 2014 ; Kuss, van Rooij, Shorter, Griffiths, & van de Mheen, 2013 ), hostility (e.g.,  Alavi et al., 2012 ; Ang et al., 2012 ; Ko et al., 2009 ; Lin et al., 2011 ; Oh, 2003 ; Yen et al., 2008 ), or a low level of self-control and self-regulation ( Blachnio & Przepiorka, 2015 ); (c)  physiological characteristics : stronger blood volume pulse and respiratory response and a weaker peripheral temperature ( Lu, Wang, & Huang, 2010 ); (d)  patterns of Internet use : a large number of hours spent online ( Kuss et al., 2013 ), engagement in different video games ( Donati, Chiesi, Ammannato, & Primi, 2015 ), or excessive weekend Internet use ( Xu, Shen, et al., 2012 ); (e)  sociodemographic factors such as gender ( Ha & Hwang, 2014 ; Shek & Yu, 2016 ) or family economic disadvantage ( Shek & Yu, 2016 ); and (f) the current situation : loneliness and stress ( Alavi et al., 2012 ; Ang et al., 2012 ; Ko et al., 2009 ; Lin et al., 2011 ; Oh, 2003 ; Yen et al., 2008 ) or affiliation with peers who have lower levels of social acceptance or young people situated in a class with higher levels of Internet addiction ( Zhou & Fang, 2015 ).

Interventions focusing on improvement of specific skills

Researchers recommend counselors, teachers, or employers to focus on the development of specific skills in (a) individuals who are at risk of Internet addiction, but also in (b) their significant others, particularly parents, teachers, and peers.

Individuals at risk of Internet addiction

The specific skills for preventing Internet addiction can be divided into four basic areas: (a)  skills associated with Internet use , such as the reduction of the positive outcome expectancy of Internet use, self-control, self-efficacy, or abstinence from addictive online applications (e.g.,  Echeburúa & de Corral, 2010 ; Kim, Namkoong, Ku, & Kim, 2008 ; Li, Wang, & Wang, 2009 ; Lin, Ko, & Wu, 2008 ; Lin et al., 2011 ; Oh, 2003 ; Wang, Wu, & Lau, 2016 ), and the ability to identify the maladaptive thoughts connected with addictive behavior ( Peng & Liu, 2010 ); (b)  skills associated with coping with stress and emotions : particularly the development of individual coping strategies (e.g.,  Li et al., 2009 ; Rehbein & Baier, 2013 ), improvement of the capacity to regulate and process emotions ( Lin et al., 2008 , 2011 ), diminution of hostility ( Ko, Yen, Yen, Lin, & Yang, 2007 ), encouragement of positive personality traits ( Yu & Shek, 2013 ), and the enhancement of self-esteem ( Ko et al., 2007 ); (c)  skills associated with interpersonal situations : the diminution of interpersonal sensitivity ( Ko et al., 2007 ), reinforcement of emotional intelligence ( García del Castillo, García del Castillo-López, Gázquez Pertusa, & Marzo Campos, 2013 ), strengthening of social competence in order to reinforce the rules of fairness and tolerance within the class group in schools ( Rehbein & Baier, 2013 ), and the ability to communicate face to face and carry out group activities and free-time activities with peers ( Echeburúa & de Corral, 2010 ; Yang, Zhu, Chen, Song, & Wang, 2016 ); and (d)  skills associated with one’s daily regime and use of free time : keeping a sleep schedule ( Lin & Gau, 2013 ), carrying out group activities and free-time activities ( Echeburúa & de Corral, 2010 ), and encouraging participation in creative, exploratory, and exciting healthy activities ( Ko et al., 2007 ).

Significant others

Some researchers also point out the presence of certain factors or parenting styles that promote the development of Internet addiction and they stress the need to work not only with vulnerable individuals but also with their loved ones, especially their parents. Most of the recommendations in the literature are focused on the parents of children at risk. Some of them are focused on peers, teachers, and employers ( Gray et al., 2015 ; Chen, Lee, & Yuan, 2013 ; Zhou & Fang, 2015 ).

In contact with the loved ones of vulnerable individuals, experts primarily recommend focusing on two basic skills: (a)  skills encouraging closer relationships , in particular the improvement of parent–child communication, the amount of time spent with their children, understanding their child’s needs, and the improvement of parental mental health (e.g.,  Echeburúa & de Corral, 2010 ; Ko et al., 2007 ; Lam, 2015 ; Lin & Gau, 2013 ). In companies with a regular Internet connection, Young ( 2010 ) recommends supporting employees’ responsibility and ethical integrity; (b)  skills connected with the monitoring of Internet use , such as understanding their child’s needs regarding Internet usage ( Kalmus, Blinka, & Ólafsson, 2013 ; Wu et al., 2013 ), knowledge and awareness of their child’s online activities ( Ang et al., 2012 ), and monitoring of the child’s Internet use ( Li, Li, & Newman, 2013 ). This may be done, for example, by establishing rules regulating the content of online activities and/or by criticizing excessive Internet use but without setting strict time limits for Internet use ( van den Eijnden, Spijkerman, Vermulst, van Rooij, & Engels, 2010 ), by the mediation of Internet use to children in the form of discussions and joint Internet use together with them ( Xiuqin et al., 2010 ), and by the use of restrictive strategies with regard to Internet use ( Kalmus et al., 2013 ; Xiuqin et al., 2010 ). Liu, Fang, Deng, and Zhang ( 2012 ) also point to the adoption of adaptive norms of Internet use and consistent adherence to them among parents. Indirectly, the literature also indicated work with teachers on how to conduct effective prevention interventions ( Walther et al., 2014 ). Regarding employees, Young ( 2010 ) encourages company management to teach employees how to detect the first signs of Internet addiction and factors that contribute to its development early on. In this context, Frangos and Sotiropoulos ( 2010 ) recommend the organization of educational seminars and the monitoring of Internet use by employers.

The skills introduced above were found to be relevant in the prevention of other risk behaviors. These skills and their role in the prevention of Internet addiction were not specifically studied and thus are not evidence-based. Only Xu, Turel, and Yuan ( 2012 ) monitored the impact of six prevention factors/specific skills (switching attention to other beneficial activities, the perceived financial cost of online gaming, dissuasion by others, rationalization/education, parental monitoring, and regulation and restriction of resources, such as money or equipment) in preventing online game playing and addiction on the basis of the self-reports of 623 adolescents in China. The data suggest that switching attention had a significant negative impact on game playing and addiction. Rationalization/education and the perceived cost had a significant negative influence on game playing but not on online game addiction and parental monitoring had a negative influence on online game addiction. Surprisingly, the adolescents reported that dissuasion was positively associated with game playing and addiction, and the regulation and restriction of resources correlated positively with online game addiction.

Program characteristics

In the texts published on Internet addiction prevention interventions, we identified the following three dimensions: (a) information-providing versus interactive interventions, (b) single versus complex interventions, and (c) empirical studies of Internet addiction prevention.

Information-providing versus interactive interventions

The most widespread form of the prevention of Internet addiction is based on providing basic information regarding Internet addiction, with an emphasis on factual information concerning its adverse consequences ( Alavi et al., 2012 ; Kwon, 2011 ). Educators usually invite experts to give a presentation to students about Internet addiction and provide some advice on how to control Internet use. Furthermore, these interventions may be a part of media education at primary and secondary schools.

Recently, four Internet addiction prevention interventions based on providing information have been published. Korkmaz and Kiran-Esen ( 2012 ) investigated the effect of a peer program on control and experimental groups of 825 students who attended the 6th to 8th grades in two primary schools in Turkey. Future peer activists attended a 10-hr educational program to learn how to inform their peers in two 40-min lectures about the Internet, Internet addiction, and types of online applications with safe and risk potential. According to the results of the study, the peer program was beneficial for the students who attended the lecture. Their Internet use was influenced in a positive manner in comparison to the members of the control group. The second publication introduced a program aimed at increasing media literacy among 2,303 German children aged 11–13 years, who were divided into experimental and control groups. The program consisted of four lectures regarding Internet use in general, online communication, and online gaming and gambling, and was implemented by trained teachers during class time. The effectiveness of the program was monitored in 1,843 respondents 12 months after the delivery of the intervention. The results revealed a significant effect of the intervention in terms of a smaller increase in their self-reported gaming frequency and gaming time and a smaller proportion of excessive gamers in the intervention group ( Walther et al., 2014 ). de Leeuw et al. ( 2010 ) describe a health promotion program delivered to 367 children aged 11–16 years; the intervention focused on education on health issues (Internet and gaming behavior was among the seven health behaviors addressed) and delivered in blocks of 2 hr a week within three school years (the authors did not present the total number of hours). The results were rather inconsistent. The time spent on the Internet (hours/day) and the number of pathological Internet users increased during the study. The number of game users decreased but heavy game use increased. Turel et al. ( 2015 ) conducted an empirical test of an Internet addiction intervention based on two short video interventions (one educational and informative and the other less informative and more humorous and surprising). A sample of 233 university students was exposed to one of the two videos. The researchers measured Internet addiction and attitudes toward reducing their use of the Internet in three waves (one week before the intervention, immediately after the intervention, and one week after the intervention). The intervention was efficacious in improving viewers’ attitudes toward reducing their Internet use.

Single versus complex interventions

Single interventions focus on a single type of risk behavior, for example, Internet addiction.

On the other hand, complex interventions focus either on: (a) different types of risk behaviors simultaneously, or (b) different types of environments that are relevant to Internet addiction. The multi-risk-behavior-focused programs also aim, besides Internet addiction, at other types of risk behaviors, mostly substance use (e.g.,  Gong et al., 2009 ; Ko et al., 2008 ; Yen, Yen, Chen, Chen, & Ko, 2007 ; Jie et al., 2009 ). The assumption that the reduction of risk behavior in one area may reduce risk behavior in other areas has been confirmed by numerous studies (e.g.,  Cuijpers, 2002 ; Miovský, Šťastná, Gabrhelík, & Jurystová, 2011 ). Regarding multiple environments or settings, we identified the following environments that such a preventive intervention should aim at: the individual, the family, peers, school, work, and the community ( Frangos & Sotiropoulos, 2010 ; Hur, 2006 ; Jang et al., 2008 ).

Busch et al. ( 2013 ) introduced a pilot version of a school intervention aimed at promoting health (healthy nutrition, physical exercise, sexual health, reducing alcohol and drug use, smoking, bullying behaviors, excessive sedentary behavior – watching television and computer use – and excessive Internet use, including online gaming) in primary schools in the Netherlands. Data were collected from 336 students aged 15–16 years, who were divided into experimental and control groups. Individual interventions were carried out on the following four levels: (a) application of healthy school policies (no smoking or use of drugs and alcoholic beverages), (b) parental activities with children and their participation in creating a healthy school environment, (c) the active development of life skills in students, and (d) addressing local health experts to provide teachers with basic information about the areas that were monitored. The intervention successfully changed the health behaviors of the students in many areas (smoking, excessive use of alcohol and drugs, sedentary behavior, and bullying) but had no effect on excessive Internet use, including online gaming. This intervention fulfilled both aspects of complexity, that is, a focus on various types of risk behavior (healthy nutrition, physical exercise, sexual health, reducing alcohol and drug use, smoking, bullying behaviors, excessive sedentary behavior – watching television and computer use – and excessive Internet use, including online gaming) and on four types of setting (the individual, family, community levels). Shek et al. ( 2011 ) present the curriculum of a positive youth development program (Project P.A.T.H.S.) which consists of 120 teaching units designed with reference to the 15 positive youth development constructs identified in successful positive youth development programs. In the extension phase of the project, a new curriculum with an additional 60 teaching units was developed with specific reference to five major adolescent developmental issues (substance abuse, the issue of sexuality, Internet addiction, bullying, and money and success issues). Besides the students, families (e.g., encouraging parental involvement) and schools (e.g., school improvement and reorganization initiatives) were also targeted.

Empirical studies of Internet addiction prevention

We identified five empirical studies describing the implementation and/or evaluation of preventive intervention (see Table  1 ). Majority of studies ( Busch et al., 2013 ; Korkmaz & Kiran-Esen, 2012 ; de Leeuw et al., 2010 ; Walther et al., 2014 ) were carried out in Europe (the Netherlands, Germany, and Turkey), only one in the USA ( Turel et al., 2015 ). Majority of studies ( Busch et al., 2013 ; Korkmaz & Kiran-Esen, 2012 ; de Leeuw et al., 2010 ; Walther et al., 2014 ) were focused on the change of Internet addiction behavior among secondary school students 11- to 16-year-olds and only one ( Turel et al., 2015 ) targeted on university students aged 18–49 years. Only Busch et al. ( 2013 ) targeted beside students their families, school environment and teachers in their preventive interventions. The rest of studies intervened in students’ population. Two studies were conducted as pilot studies with assessments ( Busch et al., 2013 ; de Leeuw et al., 2010 ) and the rest used the randomized trial with baseline and two follow ups ( Korkmaz & Kiran-Esen, 2012 ; Turel et al., 2015 ; Walther et al., 2014 ).

In terms of risk of bias in individual studies (Table  2 ), most studies ( Busch et al., 2013 ; Korkmaz & Kiran-Esen, 2012 ; de Leeuw et al., 2010 ; Turel et al., 2015 ) were assessed as high risk in the first four categories (selection bias, performance bias, detection bias, and attrition bias) and low risk in the reporting bias category. Walther et al. ( 2014 ) was assessed “high risk” bias only in the selection and attrition categories. We applied strict criteria in the assessment. However, it must be noted that the performance bias (due to knowledge of the allocated interventions by participants and personnel during the study; Higgins & Green, 2011 ) and detection bias (due to knowledge of the allocated interventions by outcome assessors; Higgins & Green, 2011 ) are, in general, not controlled for in prevention studies. Regarding the overall quality of methodology, we assess the study conducted by Walther et al. ( 2014 ) as high compared to the remaining studies.

Assessment of risk of bias in individual studies

Note. H: high risk of bias; L: low risk of bias; U: unclear bias. We applied strict criteria in the assessment. However, it must be noted that, for example, performance and detection biases are, in general, rather uncommon in these types of studies. Perhaps, in these studies, U could also be used for performance and detection biases.

Environmental interventions

Countries in which Internet addiction is considered a serious health problem are starting to introduce Internet addiction prevention interventions on the environmental level, particularly regulations related to Internet addiction. For example, the Chinese government has implemented tighter control mechanisms on Internet cafés and an anti-addiction or fatigue system. The regulations, for example, state that no Internet café is allowed within 200 meters of an elementary or middle school or that the business hours of Internet cafés must be limited to between 8 a.m. and midnight ( Guosong, 2010 ). An anti-addiction or fatigue system is a monitoring system that watches the number of hours a user spends on online game playing and the user’s game character will lose power and experience points after the limit on game playing has been exceeded ( Hsu, Wen, & Wu, 2009 ). In this context, Yani-de-Soriano, Javed, and Yousafzai ( 2012 ) urge policymakers and regulators to become more involved in the corporate social responsibility practices of online gambling companies that are aimed at preventing or minimizing the harm associated with their activities.

In the review, we focused on four basic areas regarding the prevention of Internet addiction: (a) the target groups, (b) the improvement of specific skills, (c) the program characteristics, and (d) environmental interventions.

The target group is usually split into two subgroups, using a population criterion: the universal level of prevention and the selective and indicated level of prevention. At the level of universal prevention four main subgroups were identified: (a) children and adolescents, (b) university students, (c) parents and others close to the member of the target group, and (d) gambling employees and employees with regular access to the Internet. Currently, most attention is paid to children and adolescents, who are responsive to positive influences on their values and beliefs ( Bém & Kalina, 2003 ) and easily accessible in the school environment. The prevention of Internet addiction in adults and seniors, as well as the unemployed and mothers on parental leave, who are endangered to a great extent by Internet addiction ( Müller, Glaesmer, Brähler, Woelfling, & Beutel, 2013 ; Young, 1998 ), has received very little or no attention. These are not yet mentioned in the literature on preventive interventions because such populations are difficult to access or, for example, Internet addiction might be hidden among other problematic behaviors such as workaholism ( Quinones, Griffiths, & Kakabadse, 2016 ). To address the needs of these groups, the type and extent of their problems and developing appropriate interventions for them represent more of a challenge for the future.

Regarding selective and indicated prevention, we identified six sub-groups with specific biopsychosocial risk factors: (a) psychopathological factors, (b) personality characteristics, (c) physiological characteristics, (d) patterns of Internet use, (e) sociodemographic factors, and (f) the current situation. Only factors on the individual level were mentioned in the prevention literature; factors on the environmental level, such as the family, peer, school, and community level, are missing ( Charvát & Nevoralová, 2012 ). Therefore, future studies should focus on identifying at-risk groups on the environmental level.

Future prevention interventions should also focus on people who are part of the formative environment of children and adolescents who are at risk of Internet addiction: parents, teachers, peers, and others close to them. Literature describing any specific Internet addiction prevention interventions focused on those close to potential Internet addicts is scarce ( Busch et al., 2013 ).

The development of prevention interventions that increase specific (life) skills in specific subgroups is recommended for: (a) individuals who are at risk of Internet addiction (skills associated with Internet use, with coping with stress and emotions, with interpersonal situations, and with one’s daily regime and use of free time), and also for (b) those close to them (skills encouraging closer relationships and skills connected with the monitoring of Internet use). All these skills fall into the category of life skills, which are defined as a group of psychosocial competencies and interpersonal skills that help people make informed decisions, solve problems, think critically and creatively, communicate effectively, build healthy relationships, empathize with others, and cope with and manage their lives in a healthy and productive manner ( WHO, 2003 ). In general, the adoption of relevant life skills leads to healthy lifestyles and the prevention of risk behaviors or other mental and somatic health problems ( Manee, Khouiee, & Zaree, 2011 ; Pharaoh, Frantz, & Smith, 2011 ). Although we can find many recommendations in the literature on how specific skills should be developed to prevent Internet addiction, there is only one study ( Xu, Turel, et al., 2012 ) that evaluated the impact of some specific skills in the prevention of Internet addiction. Therefore, researchers should design, conduct, and publish scientifically rigorous evaluations of specific skills that are relevant in the prevention of Internet addiction.

In Internet addiction prevention interventions, we identified three basic dimensions: (a) programs aimed at providing information versus interactive interventions, (b) single versus complex interventions, and (c) empirical studies of Internet addiction prevention. According to the literature, the general recommendations that should lead to the intended effective prevention outcomes are: (a) the mere provision of information about the negative consequences of risk behavior is ineffective and it needs to be complemented by interactive interventions aimed at changing attitudes and the development of selected skills for life ( Soole, Mazerolle, & Rombouts, 2008 ) and (b) the effective prevention interventions should be complex and focused on Internet addiction and other forms of risk behavior ( Gong et al., 2009 ) and should be a combination of interventions targeting vulnerable people with an Internet addiction, their parents and other loved ones, and the community, school, or work environment ( Frangos & Sotiropoulos, 2010 ). In our search, we found only five studies describing and evaluating prevention interventions for Internet addiction. A comparison of the results from these Internet addiction prevention interventions ( Busch et al., 2013 ; Korkmaz & Kiran-Esen, 2012 ; de Leeuw et al., 2010 ; Turel et al., 2015 ; Walther et al., 2014 ) suggests that the findings are not fully in line with the current school-based prevention recommendations based on evidence (e.g.,  Cuijpers, 2002 ; Miovský et al., 2011 ; Soole et al., 2008 ). The study of Busch et al. ( 2013 ) was complex in both dimensions but had limited effectiveness in terms of its effect on Internet addiction; the studies of Korkmaz and Kiran-Esen ( 2012 ), Turel et al. ( 2015 ), and Walther et al. ( 2014 ) used informative single-type interventions but were effective. Only the study results of de Leeuw et al. ( 2010 ) were rather inconsistent. This contradiction may be caused by the limited number of studies (five), the sample size, short-term follow ups, the different instruments used for the measurement of Internet addiction, high risk of bias in individual studies, and the emphasis on the nature of the outcome rather than the specificity of the topic of Internet addiction.

To illuminate the reasons for these contradictory findings, it is necessary to carry out more studies of the effectiveness of prevention programs focused on Internet addiction.

The above-mentioned six interventions are examples of universal prevention programs. The authors found no evidence of studies describing prevention interventions that fell within the area of selective and indicated prevention, even though in the scientific literature there are specific recommendations for the prevention of Internet addiction, especially in the area of indicated and selective prevention (e.g.,  Echeburúa & de Corral, 2010 ; Ko et al., 2007 ; Lin & Gau, 2013 ). Therefore, we recommend researchers, consultants, and educators who are planning the creation and evaluation of specific programs of selective or indicated prevention to draw inspiration from the prevention of other risk behaviors (e.g., the prevention of substance use).

We would also like to comment on the environmental interventions. Environmental interventions can be induced by providers [e.g., the owners of Internet cafés ( Guosong, 2010 ) or online gambling companies ( Hsu et al., 2009 ; Yani-de-Soriano et al., 2012 )]. Very few countries implement such interventions in practice. No efficacy or effectiveness studies have been conducted and no results published. We encourage policymakers and researchers to implement and study interventions on the environmental level.

The strength of this review is that it is (to the authors’ best knowledge) the first review focused on the prevention of Internet addiction and that also included texts written not only in English but also in Spanish. Several limitations are worth noting: first, the majority of the texts had the prevention of Internet addiction as a partial topic, while only eight texts (seven studies and one theoretical chapter) had it as the main topic; second, each of the records included in our study used different conceptualization and different measures of Internet addiction, and had different objectives; therefore, this study is more descriptive than comparative.

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first detailed review on the prevention of Internet addiction. Our findings showed that the literature on research into the prevention of Internet addiction is scarce. There is an urgent need to introduce and implement new interventions for different at-risk populations, conduct well-designed research, and publish data on the effectiveness (or lack thereof) of these interventions.

Developing prevention interventions should primarily target children and adolescents at risk of Internet addiction but also parents, teachers, peers, and others who are part of the formative environment of children and adolescents at risk of Internet addiction. These interventions should cover all three levels of prevention: universal, selective, and indicated, and should address risk factors on the family, peer, school, community, and environmental levels that contribute to the onset and development of Internet addiction. Newly designed interventions focused on Internet addiction should be rigorously evaluated and the results published.

Authors’ contribution

PV designed the study and wrote the protocol, conducted the literature searches and analyses of the records, and performed the initial drafting of the manuscript. RG contributed to the writing and finalization of the manuscript. Both authors contributed to and have approved the final manuscript. PV is the guarantor of the work.

Conflict of interest

The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.

Funding Statement

Funding sources: This study was supported by the Czech Science Foundation (Grant no. 16-15771S) and Charles University, Prague (PRVOUK-P03/LF1/9).

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How to Know If You Have an Internet Addiction and What to Do About It

Emily is a board-certified science editor who has worked with top digital publishing brands like Voices for Biodiversity, Study.com, GoodTherapy, Vox, and Verywell.

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• Top 5 Things to Know

Internet Addiction in Kids

• What to Do If You're Addicted

Internet addiction is a behavioral addiction in which a person becomes dependent on the Internet or other online devices as a maladaptive way of coping with life's stresses.

Internet addiction has and is becoming widely recognized and acknowledged. So much so that in 2020, the World Health Organization formally recognized addiction to digital technology as a worldwide problem, where excessive online activity and Internet use lead to struggles with time management, sleep, energy, and attention.

Top 5 Things to Know About Internet Addiction

• Internet addiction is not yet an officially recognized mental disorder. Researchers have formulated diagnostic criteria for Internet addiction, but it is not included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR) . However, Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) is included as a condition for further study, and Internet addiction is developing as a specialist area.
• At least three subtypes of Internet addiction have been identified: video game addiction , cybersex or online sex addiction, and online gambling addiction .
• Increasingly, addiction to mobile devices, such as cellphones and smartphones, and addiction to social networking sites, such as Facebook, are being investigated. There may be overlaps between each of these subtypes. For example, online gambling involves online games, and online games may have elements of pornography.
• Sexting , or sending sexually explicit texts, has landed many people in trouble. Some have been teens who have found themselves in hot water with child pornography charges if they are underage. It can also be a potential gateway to physical infidelity .
• Treatment for Internet addiction is available, but only a few specialized Internet addiction services exist. However, a psychologist with knowledge of addiction treatment will probably be able to help.

If you or a loved one are struggling with an addiction, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 for information on support and treatment facilities in your area.

For more mental health resources, see our National Helpline Database .

As Internet addiction is not formally recognized as an addictive disorder, it may be difficult to get a diagnosis. However, several leading experts in the field of behavioral addiction have contributed to the current knowledge of symptoms of Internet addiction. All types of Internet addiction contain the following four components:  

Excessive Use of the Internet

Despite the agreement that excessive Internet use is a key symptom, no one seems able to define exactly how much computer time counts as excessive. While guidelines suggest no more than two hours of screen time per day for youths under 18, there are no official recommendations for adults.

Furthermore, two hours can be unrealistic for people who use computers for work or study. Some authors add the caveat “for non-essential use,” but for someone with Internet addiction, all computer use can feel essential.

Here are some questions from Internet addiction assessment instruments that will help you to evaluate how much is too much.

How Often Do You...

• Stay online longer than you intended?
• Hear other people in your life complain about how much time you spend online?
• Say or think, “Just a few more minutes” when online?
• Try and fail to cut down on how much time you spend online?
• Hide how long you’ve been online?

If any of these situations are coming up on a daily basis, you may be addicted to the Internet.

Although originally understood to be the basis of physical dependence on alcohol or drugs, withdrawal symptoms are now being recognized in behavioral addictions, including Internet addiction.

Common Internet withdrawal symptoms include anger, tension, and depression when Internet access is not available.   These symptoms may be perceived as boredom, joylessness, moodiness, nervousness, and irritability when you can’t go on the computer.

Tolerance is another hallmark of alcohol and drug addiction and seems to be applicable to Internet addiction as well.   This can be understood as wanting—and from the user's point of view, needing—more and more computer-related stimulation. You might want ever-increasing amounts of time on the computer, so it gradually takes over everything you do. The quest for more is likely a predominant theme in your thought processes and planning.

Negative Repercussions

If Internet addiction caused no harm, there would be no problem. But when excessive computer use becomes addictive, something starts to suffer.

One negative effect of internet addiction is that you may not have any offline personal relationships, or the ones you do have may be neglected or suffer arguments over your Internet use.

• Online affairs can develop quickly and easily, sometimes without the person even believing online infidelity is cheating on their partner.
• You may see your grades and other achievements suffer from so much of your attention being devoted to Internet use.
• You may also have little energy for anything other than computer use—people with Internet addiction are often exhausted from staying up too late on the computer and becoming sleep deprived.
• Finances can also suffer , particularly if your addiction is for online gambling, online shopping, or cybersex.

Internet addiction is particularly concerning for kids and teens. Children lack the knowledge and awareness to properly manage their own computer use and have no idea about the potential harms that the Internet can open them up to. The majority of kids have access to a computer, and it has become commonplace for kids and teens to carry cellphones.

While this may reassure parents that they can have two-way contact with their child in an emergency, there are very real risks that this constant access to the Internet can expose them to.

• Children have become increasingly accustomed to lengthy periods of time connected to the Internet, disconnecting them from the surrounding world.
• Children who own a computer and have privileged online access have an increased risk of involvement in cyberbullying , both as a victim and as a perpetrator.  
• Children who engage in problematic internet use are more likely to use their cellphone for cybersex, particularly through sexting, or access apps which could potentially increase the risk of sex addiction and online sexual harms, such as Tinder.  

In addition, kids who play games online often face peer pressure to play for extended periods of time in order to support the group they are playing with or to keep their skills sharp. This lack of boundaries can make kids vulnerable to developing video game addiction.   This can also be disruptive to the development of healthy social relationships and can lead to isolation and victimization.

Children and teens are advised to have no more than two hours of screen time per day.

What to Do If You Have an Internet Addiction

If you recognize the symptoms of Internet addiction in yourself or someone in your care, talk to your doctor about getting help. As well as being able to provide referrals to Internet addiction clinics, psychologists, and other therapists, your doctor can prescribe medications or therapy to treat an underlying problem if you have one, such as depression or social anxiety disorder.

Internet addiction can also overlap with other behavioral addictions, such as work addiction, television addiction , and smartphone addiction.

Internet addiction can have devastating effects on individuals, families, and particularly growing children and teens. Getting help may be challenging but can make a huge difference in your quality of life.

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By Elizabeth Hartney, BSc, MSc, MA, PhD Elizabeth Hartney, BSc, MSc, MA, PhD is a psychologist, professor, and Director of the Centre for Health Leadership and Research at Royal Roads University, Canada. 

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Is internet addiction a growing problem?

Cam Adair finally realised that his addiction to video games was out of control when it made him consider ending his life.

"I struggled with it for 10 years," he says. "I dropped out of high school, never went to college, and pretended to have jobs to deceive my family.

"I eventually wrote a suicide note, and it was on that night that I realised I needed to get help. I'm now 3,860-day-free from my gaming addiction."

Mr Adair, a 32-year-old Canadian, has gone on to become the founder of Game Quitters, an online support group for people struggling with gaming addiction. It now has more than 75,000 members around the globe.

While technology, and specifically the internet, has helped to keep the world running during the coronavirus lockdowns, he says it has been difficult for people like him.

"The pandemic led to me spending more time than usual watching Twitch [a live streaming service that focuses on people playing computer games], and YouTube," says Mr Adair.

"Much of that [YouTube] content was game streamers and games too, both of which can be strong triggers to relapse and play. Thankfully I was able to stay away from a relapse, but I know many people in the Game Quitters community who did unfortunately relapse during Covid."

In their paper published in journal, CNS Drugs, on Internet addiction, Martha Shaw and Donald W Black from the Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa, classify gaming dependency as part of wider internet addiction. The paper defines this as "excessive or poorly controlled preoccupations, urges or behaviours regarding computer use and internet access that lead to impairment or distress".

While many would argue that it is not as serious as alcoholism or drug addiction, it can still be debilitating for sufferers. And Dr Andrew Doan, a neuroscientist and expert on digital addiction, agrees that the lockdowns have exacerbated the problem.

"Stresses in life leads to cravings for behaviours and escape mechanisms," he says. "The pandemic has increased stress in people's lives, and a convenient way to escape is using entertainment digital media, such as gaming and social media.

"Excessive use to escape stress is a risk factor for the development of addictive behaviours."

To help combat internet addiction, a number of tech firms have produced tools that can be used to help block or limit access to the web, or gaming websites.

Linewize is one such product aimed at children, or - more specifically - their parents.

The website and app allow parents and carers to remotely limit and monitor the time children can spend on gaming sites, or the internet overall, be it via the kids' smart phones or laptops.

Linewize also contains the usual "parental locks" that prevent access to pornography or violent material.

Teodora Pavkvic, a qualified psychologist, and digital wellness expert at San Diego-based Linewise, says that young people are particularly susceptible to spending too much time online. This is something that parents of teenagers would be quick to agree with.

"Managing time online in a digitally healthy and balanced way requires highly sophisticated cognitive skills that don't fully develop until we reach the age of 25."

She adds: "Online platforms are built to extract and maximise our time, attention and data, and so that - combined with the many sneaky dangers that lurk online - make it exceptionally difficult for children to engage with the online world in a measured, safe and responsible way."

For adults, internet addiction can also blur into gambling addiction, with betting apps and websites fuelling the latter.

BetBlocker is an app that allows people to block their access to tens of thousands of gambling websites and apps for a user-determined period of time.

Once the restriction is activated, the person cannot access the gambling platforms until the restriction expires.

The BetBlocker app - which is free - can also be controlled by someone's partner, friend, or parents.

"The ease of access to remote gambling is unquestionably the biggest challenge that anyone with a gambling addiction will face today," says BetBlocker's founder Duncan Garvie.

"Everyone is walking around with a casino, or bookie, in their pocket, and it is very easy to play discretely."

Users can block gambling sites for hours, days, or weeks. And people can also use the app to block other websites, such as gaming ones.

"This is intended to help users, by creating a restriction during known periods of vulnerability," adds Mr Garvie, who is based in Edinburgh.

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GamBlock is another app that can be used in a similar way to prevent access to gambling websites. The Australian firm's chief executive David Warr says "we are not anti-gambling". Instead the focus is on helping problem gamblers.

Dr Doan's expertise in video games addiction has partly come the hard way - he used to be such an addict himself.

"During medical school at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine [in Baltimore], and during my residency training, I was playing 80 to 100 hours of video games per week, for about 10 years," he says.

The author of a book called Hooked On Games: The Lure And Cost Of Video Games And Internet Addiction, he says that the internet should be seen as two separate parts.

"I break down digital media into two broad categories - digital sugar verses digital veggies. Digital veggies, such as online therapies, can be utilised to help people manage their stress and reduce their risk for addictive behaviours.

"[Whereas] the excessive usage of digital sugars like gaming, pornography and non-work related social media can increase the risk of addictive behaviours, in particular when these activities are used to escape daily stressors."

Dr Doan fears that given the amount of time we now all spend online, we will see more gaming and internet addictions.

However, Cam Adair is hopeful that tech firms such as Linewize, BetBlocker and GamBlock can play an important role in helping to alleviate the problem. And it is important to stress that anyone concerned about any form of addiction should contact their doctor.

Mr Adair's work has been published in Psychiatry Research, and he is now an international speaker, talking about addiction.

"Asking for help saved my life," he says. "I was deceptive, withdrawn, isolated, hostile and unreachable during my addiction. Now I'm happy, content, and able to cope with normal life's stresses."

If you have been affected by any of these issues you can visit the BBC's Action Line.