The role of depression, personality, and future time perspective in internet addiction in adolescents and emerging adults

The impact of artistic and sporting activities on children's levels of digital addiction, aggression, and psychological resilience

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to investigate the effects of engaging in artistic and sporting activities on children's levels of digital addiction, aggression, and psychological resilience.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

This cross-sectional study encompasses children aged 11-12 who are regularly engaged and not engaged in artistic or sporting education. The study involved 623 children. Data collection utilized the "Digital Addiction Scale," "Child and Adolescent Psychological Resilience Scale," and "Reactive and Proactive Aggression Scale."

RESULTS

The study found statistically significant effects of engaging in sporting and artistic activities on digital addiction, psychological resilience, and reactive aggression (p < 0.05). Compared to the group with no activity, children engaged in artistic activities scored -4.38 units lower on the digital addiction scale, while those engaged in sports scored -4.23 units lower. Similarly, compared to the group with no activity, children engaged in artistic activities scored 3.32 units higher on the psychological resilience scale, and those engaged in sports scored 3.30 units higher. As children's psychological resilience scores increased, their scores for digital addiction and aggression decreased.

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Participation in such activities can help children acquire healthy coping skills, strengthen their emotional regulation abilities, and reduce problems associated with anger. Therefore, encouraging children to engage in these activities is crucial for contributing to their overall well-being and promoting a balanced lifestyle.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Nurses can educate families about the importance of sports and artistic activities for the healthy development of children. Moreover, diversifying the activities offered to children in schools and youth centers and encouraging these activities can help promote healthy lifestyles and reduce digital addiction.

Exploring the interplay between addiction and time perception: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Prior studies have investigated the immediate impacts of substances on temporal perception, the impact of temporal outlook, and the consequences of modified temporal perception on addictive behaviors. These inquiries have provided valuable perspectives on the intricate associations between addiction and time perception, enriching the groundwork for forthcoming research and therapeutic strategies. This comprehensive review aims to further explore intricate correlation among diverse addictive substances-namely alcohol, cannabis, nicotine, opioids-and non-substance addictions such as internet gaming, elucidating their influence on temporal perception. Adhering to the PICOS method and adhering to PRISMA guidelines, we systematically reviewed and critically evaluated all existing research concerning temporal perception in individuals with substance and non-substance use disorders. Specifically, our analyses involved 31 pertinent articles encompassing six unique groups-alcohol, nicotine, cannabis, stimulants, opioids, and internet-related addictions-sourced from a pool of 551 papers. The findings revealed differences in time perception between addicts and control groups, as indicated by medium to large effect sizes (Hedge's g = 0.8, p < 0.001). However, the nature of these differences-whether they predominantly involve time overestimation or underestimation-is not yet definitively clear. This variability underscores the complexity of the relationship between addiction and temporal perception, paving the way for further research to unravel these intricate dynamics.

Exploring the relationship between depression and delinquency: a sibling comparison design using the NLSY

Relative to the general population, adolescents with psychiatric disorders such as major depression disorder are incarcerated (and reincarcerated) at higher rates. Current research is mixed on whether this association is a cause, consequence, or the product of selection. For example, aggression can lead to more depressive symptoms, yet depression is associated with antisocial behaviors (e.g., delinquency). To better understand the relationship between depression and delinquent behavior, we used the discordant kinship model to examine data from sibling pairs in the National Longitudinal Surveys of Youth 1979, a nationally representative study. By explicitly modeling within- and between-family variance, we reduced the influence of genetic and shared-environmental confounds on our analysis. Our results suggest that the relationship between depression and delinquency is not causal, but rather a product of selection.

The mediating effect of subject well-being between physical activity and the internet addiction of college students in China during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study

Background

Internet addiction poses a significant threat to the health of college students worldwide, but physical activity, as a highly safe and effective rehabilitative measure, has shown promise for alleviating this issue nowadays. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the mediating processes in this association remained unclear. This study aims to explore the impact of physical activity on internet addiction among college students and the mediating role of subjective well-being.

Methods

A survey was conducted on 216 eligible college students using the physical activity level scale, the internet addiction test, and the subjective well-being scale. For data analysis, independent sample t-tests, correlation analysis, hierarchical regression analysis, and mediating effect tests were in turn carried out in this work.

Results

The study revealed noteworthy gender disparities in physical activity and internet addiction among college students (β = -0.356, p < 0.01; β = 0.140, p < 0.05). Compared to females, male students manifest elevated levels of physical activity and lower scores in internet addiction. Physical activity and subjective well-being exerted a significantly negative predictive influence on internet addiction (β = -0.162, p < 0.05; β = -0.508, p < 0.001). What's more, subjective well-being assumed a crucial mediating role in the relationship between physical activity and internet addiction, with the mediating effect accounting for 72.81% of the total effect.

Conclusion

This study deepens the understanding of how physical activity reduces internet addiction risk while emphasizing that enhancing subjective well-being is an effective strategy for college students to cope with Internet addiction.

Problematic Internet Use and Personality Traits: Results in Working Age Adults

INTRODUCTION

Problematic Internet use has become a growing problem worldwide; several factors, including personality, play an essential role in understanding this disorder. The Big Five personality traits and their association with problematic Internet use were examined in a large and diverse population.

METHODS

A survey was applied to a total of 1,109 adults of working age. Each answered the Big Five Inventory and the Internet Addiction Test.

RESULTS

Problematic Internet use was found in 10.6% of them (n=112). The personality traits extraversion and openness to experience were significantly associated with those with the disorder. With adjustment models, a positive association was found between these traits and being single and higher education.

CONCLUSIONS

This study represents the largest of its kind in the Spanish-speaking population, highlighting the importance of recognising the factors involved in problematic Internet use.

Problematic Internet Use Among Adolescent Male and Female Psychiatric Inpatients: A Gender Perspective

Problematic internet use (PIU) is of treatment interest in adolescent clinical samples. Gender specific differences in terms of personality traits and psychopathological symptoms remain unclear. In an adolescent clinical sample (n = 104; 69 girls) PIU, psychopathology, temperament and character traits as well as emotional and behavioral problems were assessed. 62% of the sample showed subthreshold PIU and 34% full PIU (fPIU). Boys reported more gaming whereas girls social networking. Sex specific analyses revealed gender differences: Girls with fPIU scored significantly higher on internalizing/externalizing problems/behavior, novelty seeking and transcendence, and lower on persistence, self-directedness, and cooperativeness than girls without fPIU. Boys with fPIU scored significantly higher on internalizing problems and self-transcendence and lower on harm avoidance than boys without fPIU. Gender plays an important role in PIU. Gender specific differences in both application use as well as symptomatic, temperament and character traits call for a gender specific approach in prevention and treatment integration.

The Mediating Role of Procrastination in the Relationship between Fear of Missing Out and Internet Addiction in University Students

This study aims to examine the potential mediating role of procrastination in the relationship between fear of missing out and internet addiction. Employing a cross-sectional research design, this study utilized a paper-pencil form to collect data from 315 students (65.4% undergraduate and 66.3% females) between 18 and 32 (Mage = 22.43; SD = 3.81) studying at a state university in Türkiye. Data were collected through the convenience sampling method. The study was designed as a survey model. This design was tested via mediation analysis. The participants completed self-report assessments using the Fear of Missing Out Scale (FoMOs), General Procrastination Scale (GPS-9), and Young Internet Addiction Scale (short form). The findings showed that FoMO had a significant positive direct effect on both procrastination (R2 = 0.13) and internet addiction (R2 = 0.33). Procrastination also had a significant positive direct effect on internet addiction (R2 = 0.34). Additionally, procrastination mediated the relationship between the fear of missing out and internet addiction (β = 0.156, p < 0.001). These findings not only extend the scope of existing research but also hold practical implications for the development of sustainable interventions. It is believed that the findings will contribute to the consideration of procrastination when preparing psychoeducation or group guidance programs for internet addiction. These interventions can effectively address the process through which fear of missing out leads to internet addiction by considering the significant role of procrastination in students. Findings typically suggest that procrastination behavior is a key factor in explaining the association between FoMO and internet addiction.

Self-control mediates the relationship between time perspective and mobile phone addiction in Chinese college students

Background

Mobile phone addiction (MPA) is a prevalent problem among college students, and Chinese college students are a high-risk group for smartphone addiction. MPA has a negative impact on the physical and mental health and academic performance of college students. Studies have explored the influence of many factors on MPA, such as the characteristics of the smartphone itself, the characteristics of the smartphone user, and the environment. However, to date, no studies have explored the protective and risk factors for MPA from the perspective of personality traits. From this perspective, this study explored the influence of time perspective and trait self-control on MPA to identify effective measures to prevent and intervene in MPA in college students.

Methods

The participants in this cross-sectional study were 526 Chinese college students. They completed the Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory, the Self-Control Scale and the Mobile Phone Addiction Tendency Scale using an online questionnaire tool. Pearson correlation analysis was used to explore the relationships among time perspective, self-control and MPA. A latent variable mediation analysis of the structural equation model was used to examine the mediating role of self-control in the relationship between time perspective and MPA.

Results

Various dimensions of time perspective were strongly associated with MPA. Among these dimensions, past negative (r = 0.397, p < 0.001), present hedonistic (r = 0.207, p < 0.001), and present fatalistic perspectives (r = 0.444, p < 0.001) were positively associated with MPA, while a future time perspective (r = -0.200, p < 0.001) was negatively associated with MPA. Mediation effects analysis showed that past negative (β = 0.034, p < 0.001, 95% CI [0.020-0.051]), present hedonistic (β = 0.038, p < 0.001, 95% CI [0.02-0.06]), present fatalistic (β = 0.047, p < 0.001, 95% CI [0.031-0.065]) and future orientation perspectives (β = -0.093, p < 0.001, 95% CI [-0.123-0.069]) indirectly influenced MPA through the mediating effect of self-control.

Conclusion

This study confirmed that a future time perspective and self-control are protective factors for MPA and that past negative, present hedonistic and present fatalistic perspectives are risk factors for MPA. College educators can prevent MPA in college students directly by cultivating their self-control ability, as well as indirectly by increasing their use of future time perspective and reducing past negative, present fatalistic and present hedonistic perspectives.

The association of problematic usage of the internet with burnout, depression, insomnia, and quality of life among Hungarian high school students

Introduction

The extensive availability of the internet has led to the recognition of problematic usage of the internet (PUI) or so called internet addiction (IA), probably mostly involving adolescents.

Aim

Here we present a study focusing on the incidence and consequences (including burnout, which is relatively rarely studied) of internet addiction among high school students using a questionnaire-based non-random sampling cross-sectional survey. Included questionnaires were the Problematic Internet Use Questionnaire, the Maslach Burnout Inventory General Survey for Students MBI-GS (S), the 9-item short version of Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-SF), the Athens Insomnia Questionnaire and the EQ-5D (quality of life) questionnaire. Data were evaluated the exertion of Student's t-test, chi square test and Pearson's rank-order correlation. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine the significance of the different parameters as independently associated with PUI.

Results

Overall 3,000 paper-based questionnaires were successfully delivered and 2,540 responses received (response rate of 84.6%). 1,309 males (mean age 17.6 ± 1.43 years) (51.5%) and 1,231 females (mean age 17.5 ± 1.4 years) (48.5%) took part in our study. Problematic usage of the internet was detected in 486 (19.1%) students (232 males, mean age 17.6 ± 1.35 years and 254 females, mean age 17.34 ± 1.37 years). In a logistic regression analysis sleep disturbance (OR: 1.84, 95% CI: 1.83-2.03), depression (OR: 1.97, 95% CI: 1.77-2.02) and burnout (OR: 1.8, 95% CI: 1.16-1.94) were significantly associated with PUI.

Conclusion

Nearly one fifth of our study population suffered from PUI, which was strongly associated with school burnout, insomnia and depression, which underlines the importance of this phenomenon.

Procrastination Predicts Future Internet Use Disorders in Adolescents but Not Vice Versa: Results from a 12-Month Longitudinal Study

BACKGROUND

Use of Internet applications is often associated with postponing real-life obligations. Previous cross-sectional studies have reported a positive association between procrastination and Internet use disorders (IUDs). Further, procrastination is included in theoretical models explaining the development of IUDs. However, little is known about the temporal relationship; thus, longitudinal studies identifying the specific predictive direction are required.

METHODS

Using a cross-lagged panel design, a total of 240 students who were at high risk for IUDs, aged between 12 and 18 years (M = 15.17, SD = 1.66) were assessed at baseline (t1) and reassessed one year later (t2) with standardized measures for IUDs and procrastination.

RESULTS

Our results showed that IUD symptom severity at t2 was significantly predicted both by IUD symptom severity at t1 and procrastination at t1. However, procrastination at t2 was predicted only by procrastination at t1 but not by IUD symptom severity at t1.

CONCLUSIONS

We could not find a reciprocal relationship between procrastination and IUD symptom severity. Procrastination appears to be a causal risk factor for IUDs, but not a consequence. As a modifiable risk factor, procrastination is a promising starting point for preventive and therapeutic interventions for IUDs.

Time Goes Back-Time Perspective in Polish Men with Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder and Risky Sexual Behavior

Many relationships between time perspective and a propensity to engage in risky behaviors or developing addictions have been demonstrated. The aim of our study was to determine the differences in intensity of individual time perspectives in people with compulsive sexual behavior disorder (CSBD) and risky sexual behavior (RSB). The analysis includes 425 men: 98 CSBD (age M = 37.99 years), 63 RSB (age M = 35.70 years), 264 without CSBD and RSB features constituting the control group (age M = 35.08 years). We used the Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory, the Sexual Addiction Screening Test-Revised, the Risky Sexual Behavior Scale and a self-constructed survey. The comparative analysis showed a higher intensity of past-negative (p = 0.040), a lower of past-positive (p < 0.001) and a present-fatalistic (p = 0.040) outlook in the CSBD group compared to the control group. Compared to the participants with RSB, the CSBD group was characterized by a higher intensity of past-negative (p = 0.010), a lower of past-positive (p = 0.004) and a present-hedonistic perspective (p = 0.014). The RSB group also achieved higher results from the present-hedonistic perspective (p = 0.046) compared to the control group. The CSBD patients indicate a stronger tendency to focus on negative past compared to non-CSBD men, both taking and not taking RSB. The time perspective profiles of RSB men are similar to those who do not engage in RSB. The distinguishing feature of men with RSB without CSBD is a greater ability to enjoy current experiences.

The Effect of Future Time Perspective on Internet Dependence Among College Students in Pandemic Time: A Moderated Mediation Analysis

Purpose

Social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic has greatly increased the probability of Internet dependence. This study sought to examine the relation between future time perspective and college students' Internet dependence, as well as the mediating role of boredom proneness and the moderating effect of self-control in the link between boredom proneness and Internet dependence.

Materials and Methods

A questionnaire survey was carried out among college students from two universities in China. A sample of 448 participants varying from freshmen to seniors completed questionnaires on future time perspective, Internet dependence, boredom proneness and self-control.

Results

Results indicated that college students with high future time perspective were less likely to fall into Internet dependence and boredom proneness mediated this relationship. The relation between boredom proneness and Internet dependence was moderated by self-control. Boredom proneness had a greater impact on Internet dependence for students with low self-control.

Conclusion

Future time perspective could influence Internet dependence through the mediating role of boredom proneness, which is moderated by self-control. The results advanced our understanding of how future time perspective affected college students' Internet dependence, revealing that intervention strategies which could improve students' self-control would be instrumental in reducing Internet dependence.

A comprehensive review on emerging trends in the dynamic evolution of digital addiction and depression

Introduction

Using digital addiction as an umbrella term to cover any type of addictions to digital technologies such as the internet, smartphones, social media, or video games, the current study aimed to reveal the intellectual structure and evolution of research addressing digital addiction-depression relationship.

Methods

The study combined bibliometric and science mapping analysis methods for this purpose. Data for the study was gathered from Web of Science Core Collection after a comprehensive process of data search/extraction, and 241 articles were included in the final data set. A period-based, comparative science mapping analysis was performed using the SciMAT software.

Results

The analysis of data over three periods, Period 1 (1983-2016), Period 2 (2017-2019), and Period 3 (2020-2022) showed that internet addiction was the most significant theme across all three periods, which was followed by social media addiction. Depression, which emerged as a significant theme during Period 1, was later covered under anxiety disorder theme. Research interest was mostly on factors related to both addiction and depression such as cognitive distortion, insomnia, loneliness, self-esteem, social support, alexithymia, as well as cybervictimization or academic performance.

Discussion

The results suggested that much research is warranted on the digital addiction-depression relationship in different age cohorts, especially children and elderly. Similarly, the current analysis showed that this line of research particularly focused on internet, gaming and social media addiction, and evidence with regard to other types of digital addiction or related compulsive behaviors was almost absent. In addition, research was mostly inclined to understanding cause-effect relationships, which is significant, but preventive strategies seemed to be barely addressed. Likewise, the smartphone addiction-depression relationship arguably garnered less research interest, so future research would contribute to the field in this respect.

Anxiety predicts internet addiction, which predicts depression among male college students: A cross-lagged comparison by sex

Objectives

Internet addiction has become an increasingly serious public health issue, putting young people at particular risk of psychological harm. This study aimed to analyze the interactions between college students' depression, anxiety, and Internet addiction and explore how these interactions differ between men and women.

Methods

A 6-month follow-up study was conducted on 234 college students using the Self-Rating Depression Scale, Self-rating Anxiety Scale, and Revised Chen Internet Addiction Scale.

Results

Depression, anxiety, and Internet addiction were positively correlated (p < 0.01). Anxiety can predict Internet addiction and that Internet addiction can predict depression. Moreover, anxiety had a significant predictive effect on Internet addiction among men.

Conclusion

Anxiety predicts Internet addiction, and Internet addiction predicts depression among male college students. These findings may better inform future Internet addiction intervention strategies. Particularly, interventions may better address Internet addiction by focusing on the role of anxiety, especially among men.

Public Health Approach to Problems Related to Excessive and Addictive Use of the Internet and Digital Media

Purpose of Review

Advances in digital technology and media have provided convenience and advantages in all areas of our daily lives. However, there is a risk of excessive and addictive use, which increases the risk of addiction as a disease and other related mental and physical problems. This article reviews the public health approach to problems related to excessive and addictive use of the Internet and digital media.

Recent Findings

The public health model views addiction as the result of interactions among individuals, digital media, and the environment; therefore, interventions should aim to reduce risk factors and increase protective factors in these three areas. This includes developing and providing evidence-based services according to each individual's problem type and severity. Regarding interventions for digital media and the environment, restricting accessibility and regulating content may be necessary. This calls for an integrative, comprehensive, and continuous intervention strategy, and to achieve such a framework, we need to establish an information system to monitor the magnitude and patterns of related problems.

Summary

This review suggests a surveillance system that provides a list of evidence-based policies from the public health perspective. Suggestions for an advanced international information, policy, and monitoring system are discussed.

The influence of internet use frequency, family atmosphere, and academic performance on adolescent depression: Based on the chain mediating effect of self-adjustment and campus deviant behavior

Introduction

Depression has become a prominent psychological problem among young people. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential relationship between the frequency of Internet use, family atmosphere, academic performance, self-adjustment, campus deviant behavior, and depressive symptoms among adolescents.

Methods

Based on the survey data of the fifth wave (2017~2018) and the sixth wave (2019~2020) of the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS), this study used LISREL8.8 software to analyze 1,577 10~15 data on adolescents.

Results

In this study, the mean score of self-adjustment was 42.40 (SD = 6.79), the mean score of campus deviant behavior was 12.59 (SD = 4.00), the mean score of depressive symptoms in 2018 was 11.88 (SD = 3.04), and the mean score of depressive symptoms in 2020 was 7.64 (SD = 2.20). Secondly, the frequency of Internet use had no direct effect on the depressive symptoms of adolescents, family atmosphere was negatively correlated with depressive symptoms (p < 0.005), and academic performance was positively correlated with depressive symptoms (p < 0.005). Depressive symptoms in 2020 had a direct effect (β = 0.37, p < 0.001), and also had a negative effect on depressive symptoms in 2020, with a total effect of-0.07 (p < 0.001); self-adjustment had no direct effect on depressive symptoms in adolescents in 2018, However, the total effect was -0.14 (p < 0.001), which had a significant positive effect on 2020 depressive symptoms, and the total effect was 0.18 (p < 0.001), and self-adjustment had a significant negative effect on adolescent campus deviant behavior (β = -0.38, p < 0.001); in addition, the frequency of Internet use, family atmosphere, and academic performance all had indirect effects on adolescents' 2020 depressive symptoms, with total effects of -0.60, 0.01, and 0.02 (p < 0.001), respectively. This study also found depressive symptoms in adolescents have a certain persistence in time.

Discussion

Based on this study, it is necessary to pay more attention to the depression of adolescents, strengthen the training of self-adjustment, improve the anti-frustration ability and psychological resilience, and reduce the campus deviant behavior of adolescents. It is recommended to try to start from emotional self-adjustment to promote the personality health of adolescents.

Tolerance for ambiguity, reappraisal, and suppression mediate the relationship between problematic internet use and procrastination

The current scientific literature lacks studies on the relationship between problematic internet use (PIU) and procrastination, especially regarding the mediating mechanisms underlying this relationship. The present study examined the association between procrastination and PIU, as well as determining the mediating roles of tolerance for ambiguity, reappraisal, and suppression. The conceptual model was tested using data collected from 434 Iranian college students. The participants completed a number of psychometric scales assessing procrastination, PIU, tolerance for ambiguity, reappraisal, and suppression. Structural equation modeling was used to test the hypothesized model. Results showed that PIU, tolerance for ambiguity, and suppression were positively associated with procrastination, and that there was a negative association between reappraisal and procrastination. Moreover, the mediation analysis indicated that tolerance for ambiguity, reappraisal, and suppression fully mediated the association between PIU and procrastination. However, it is also possible to interpret the results as suggesting that PIU is unimportant as a predictor for procrastination once mediators are controlled for.

Influences of depression, self-efficacy, and resource management on learning engagement in blended learning during COVID-19

This study examined the structural relationships among self-efficacy, resource management, and learning engagement during the COVID-19 era based on self-regulation theory. We also investigated whether the level of depression moderates the structural relationships among the factors by comparing a non-depressed group and a moderate-to-high depressed group. This study confirmed that resource management influenced learning engagement regardless of the depression level. Self-efficacy for learning also influenced resource management. The implications of this study are that self-efficacy is a prerequisite for resource management for learning. However, the direct influences of self-efficacy on learning engagement were observed only in the non-depressed group. Self-efficacy for learning indirectly influenced learning engagement through resource management in the depressed group. The self-regulated behaviors, such as resource management should be encouraged to enhance learning engagement of depressed students. Students' depression should also be monitored on a regular basis to help improve learning engagement during as well as after the COVID-19 era.

Network Analysis of Time Use and Depressive Symptoms Among Emerging Adults: Findings From the Guizhou Population Health Cohort Study

Background

To date, the relationship between diverse time use behaviors and depression status among emerging adults have not been disentangled in the literature. Therefore, if and how the time displacement mechanism activates depressive symptoms among emerging adults remains unclear.

Methods

To fill this gap in the literature, we employed a network analysis to make estimations. The emerging adult sample (N = 1,811) was collected by the Guizhou Population Health Cohort Study. Time use behaviors were measured by an adaption of the self-administered International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and depressive symptoms were assessed using the 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9).

Results

The results revealed that the time displacement mechanism of emerging adults differed from that of adolescents. Sleep duration was not crowded out by other activities, while the time spent on computer use was found to be negatively related to time spent on heavy work activities. Moreover, computer use behavior triggered three depressive symptoms ("Anhedonia," "Guilt," and "Motor"), but inhibited "Suicide." The results of the directed acyclic graph revealed that females and heavy drinkers were at risk of depression.

Limitations

The study sample was confined to only one province, which may limit its generalizability. The cross-sectional design impeded the ability to draw causal inferences.

Conclusion

Our results enhance the current understanding of the internal mechanism of how time use behaviors influence depressive symptoms among emerging adults.

Present hedonism and future time perspectives predicting hypersexuality and problematic pornography use

The Time Perspective (TP) theory (i.e., the psychological experience regarding time) was often examined in association with different addictive behaviors, and the different TPs (i.e., Past Positive, Past Negative, Present Hedonistic, Present Fatalistic, and Future TPs) demonstrated different relationship patterns with them. However, most studies were conducted in relation to substance use-related disorders, leaving crucial knowledge gaps concerning the associations between TPs and potential behavioral addictions. The aim of the present study was to examine the associations between the five TP dimensions, hypersexuality, and problematic pornography use (PPU), considering potential gender differences. Participants from two independent samples (N₁ = 554; N₂ = 453) completed a self-report survey on TPs and sexual behaviors. Structural equation modeling results indicated that the Present Hedonistic TP had a positive, moderate, and the Future TP had a negative, weak association with hypersexuality in both samples. Only the Present Hedonistic TP had a significant, positive, weak-to-moderate association with PPU across the samples. The explained variances of the models were higher in case of hypersexuality (28 and 27%, respectively), than in case of PPU (1 and 14%, respectively). No significant gender differences were observed. In line with previous findings concerning other predictors of hypersexuality and PPU, the results of the present study suggest that hypersexuality and PPU may differ from each other in terms of their TP background. Yet, present hedonism, which is related to impulsivity, may play an important role in both problematic sexual behaviors, suggesting that interventions focusing on this TP might be successful in reducing hypersexuality and PPU.

Internet addiction in young adults: The role of impulsivity and codependency

Excessive Internet use has demonstrated comorbidity with other psychological symptoms and psychiatric disorders, as well as impairments in the management of daily life, relationships and emotional stability. Recent findings in the literature have consistently supported the relationship between impulsivity and Internet addiction. The present study hypothesized that, in addition to impulsivity, a further predictor of Internet addiction might be relational co-dependency, which is also associated in the literature with addiction phenomena, but mainly substance addiction. This paper investigates the role and predictive weight of impulsivity and codependency on Internet addiction on a sample of young adult university students (n = 481) by using a hierarchical regression analysis. The participants were administered the UADI-2, the BIS-11 and the SFCDS. In terms of percentage distribution, 38 % of the participants were in the dependency range, while 37.7 % demonstrated Internet abuse behavior. The results confirmed the role of impulsiveness (β = 0.312) and added to the literature by showing the significant role of relational codependency (β = 0.275), gender (β = 0.174) and age (β = 0.196). Thus, male participants were more dependent, more impulsive and more co-dependent, with increasing age in the given range (18-30). The present study shed light to the presence of this issue among young adults and that, as a preventive and restraining measure, there is a need not only for targeted awareness-raising programmes but also for interventions to promote greater emotional control and a more balanced management of personal relationships.

Internet Addiction and Emotional and Behavioral Maladjustment in Mainland Chinese Adolescents: Cross-Lagged Panel Analyses

Adolescence is a developmental stage when adolescents are vulnerable to addictive behaviors, such as Internet addiction (IA), which refers to pathological use of the Internet. Although there are views proposing that the links between IA and adolescent problem behavior may be bidirectional in nature, few studies have examined the reciprocal relationships between IA and other maladjustment indicators, and even fewer studies have simultaneously employed both emotional and behavioral maladjustment indicators in a single study. To address the above research gaps, the present study investigated how IA is associated with both depression and delinquency among Chinese adolescents. Two waves of data were collected at two consecutive years, respectively, with 1year apart, from 3,010 students (Mean age=13.16, SD=0.81; 57.48% boys) in four junior high schools in mainland China. These students completed the same questionnaire containing measures of IA, depression, and delinquency at each wave. The proposed cross-lagged panel model fitted the data very well, and there were significant positive reciprocal effects between IA and depression as well as delinquency after controlling for background socio-demographic factors. Gender differences were also observed in multi-group comparisons. Specifically, IA showed a stronger longitudinal impact on delinquency among boys than among girls. While depression significantly predicted IA in 1year among boys, such a prediction was not significant among girls. These findings delineate the bidirectionality of the associations between IA and emotional and behavioral maladjustment indexed by depression and delinquency, respectively. The findings also suggest that researchers and practitioners have to take gender differences as well as different developmental indicators in understanding the bidirectional influences between IA and adolescent behavioral and emotional development.

The relationship between dissociation symptoms, sleep disturbances, problematic internet use and online gaming in adolescents

Some adolescents admitted to the child and adolescent psychiatry outpatient clinic experience dissociative symptoms, such as hearing strange sounds, temporary blackouts, seeing images, changes in body parts, and looking at themselves from outside themselves. Some may also have sleep disturbances and a history of spending a long time on the internet. This study investigated the relationship between dissociative symptoms and sleep disorders, problematic internet usage (PIU),aggression and digital game addiction in adolescents. Participants completed the State-Trait Anger Expression Inventory (STAXI), Problematic Internet Usage Scale (PIUS), Digital Game Addiction Scale (DGAS-7), Children's Depression Inventory (CDI), Adolescent Dissociative Experiences Scale (A-DES), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Screen for Child Anxiety Related Emotional Disorders Child Version (SCARED), and a sociodemographic form. Regression analyses were performed to identify associations. The sample consisted of 244 adolescents between 14 and 18 years of age (M = 15.93, SD = 0.90), of which 171 (70.1%) were girls and 73 (29.9%) were boys. Fifty-two (21.3%) were classified as having problematic online gaming (POG+), whereas 192 (78.7%) were classified as not having problematic online gaming (POG-). There was a difference between the two groups in all sub-dimensions of the PIUS, STAXI, CDI, and A-DES. Adolescents who had higher scores on the A-DES had a higher risk of sleep disorders and had higher scores on the PIU, CDI, and SCARED. The POG+ group dissociation scores were considerably higher than POG- group scores. Adolescents with high A-DES scores also had higher anger scores and weaker anger control skills. Consequently, sleep disorders, PIU, and POG may increase dissociative symptoms.

Future Expectations and Internet Addiction Among Adolescents: The Roles of Intolerance of Uncertainty and Perceived Social Support

Internet addiction is a common and challenging problem among adolescents. Previous studies have shown that future time orientation is an important protective factor against internet addiction. In this study, the mediating effect of intolerance of uncertainty and the moderating role of perceived social support were examined on the association between future expectations, regarded as the "prospective life course" perspective of future time orientation, and internet addiction among adolescents. A total of 1,006 Chinese adolescents (54% male and 46% female; Mage = 15.42 years, SD = 1.32) recruited from middle schools completed questionnaires. Results indicated that future expectations were significantly negatively associated with internet addiction, and the link was mediated by intolerance to uncertainty in adolescents. Further, the latent moderated structural equation showed that perceived social support moderated the association between future expectations and intolerance of uncertainty. The association was significant only for adolescents with a higher level of perceived social support. The findings of this study provide specific guidelines for how to prevent adolescent internet addiction.

Heart Rate Variability, Time Estimation and Internet-Dependent Behaviour in 16-17-Year-Old Adolescents: A Study in Russian Arctic

Internet-dependent behaviour in adolescents can contribute to a change in the function of the nervous system, which is reflected in the violation of time perception and autonomic regulation of the heart rate. The aim of the study was to determine groups of individuals with different risks of Internet addiction (IA) in relation to heart rate variability (HRV) parameters and the efficiency of time estimation in adolescents aged 16–17 years living in the Russian Arctic. Adolescents aged 16–17 years (n = 49–32 females, 17 males) living in Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug (Russia) were observed. Chen Scale Internet Addiction (CIAS) was used. The duration of an individual 1 min was determined. HRV parameters were determined using the "Varicard" equipment (Russia). In 16–17-year-old adolescents with different levels of risk of developing IA, including signs of IA, we revealed a high severity of symptoms of withdrawal from Internet use, difficulty in time estimation against the background of sympathicotonia and a decrease in vagal regulation of heart rate. In individuals with minimal symptoms of withdrawal from Internet use, the total HRV and vagal activity remain higher than in those with severe withdrawal symptoms, and their time estimation remains effective.

Procrastination and problematic new media use: the mediating role of future anxiety

In recent years, the new media have become so attractive that they are used for meetings, entertainment, and work. People more and more often use Facebook or phones instead of doing their work or family duties. The main aim of the present study was to test the mediating role of future anxiety in the relationship between procrastination and problematic new media use. The participants were students (N = 478), aged 18 to 27 (M = 19.93, SD = 1.77); 64% of the sample were women. The General Procrastination Scale, the Decisional Procrastination Scale, the Facebook Intrusion Questionnaire, the Adapted Mobile Phone Use Habits, and the Future Anxiety Scale—Short Form were used. The study showed that those students who procrastinated often reported a high tendency to engage in problematic new media use and a high level of future anxiety. The findings of the study have important implications for research on problematic Facebook and mobile phone use. They may be applicable in the work of psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists, both in prevention and in developing online addiction therapies.

Internet addiction among Czech adolescents

Our study estimates the prevalence of Internet addiction in Czech adolescents as well as differences by gender and school type. A total of 3,950 adolescents (n = 1,940 boys, n = 2,010 girls) from 11 to 19 years of age (M = 15.73, SD = 1.99) participated in the research. They completed the Internet Addiction Test, which consists of subscales for Salience, Excessive Use, Neglect Work, Anticipation, Lack of Control, and Neglect Social Life. The results indicate that adolescent girls have higher levels of internet addiction. In boys, unlike girls, internet addiction was associated with a reduction in social relationships and interactions. Our findings show interesting differences between adolescent girls and boys and the type of school attended in the Czech population in terms of Internet addiction.

Impulsivity, Social Support and Depression Are Associated With Latent Profiles of Internet Addiction Among Male College Freshmen

Background: The rate of internet addiction is increasing in college students. The first year at college is a particularly vulnerable period for internet addiction. Students' psychological characteristics are likely to play an important role in internet addiction. Our study aimed to assess the relationship between impulsivity, social support, depression and internet addiction among male college freshmen. Materials and Methods: The current study utilized latent profile analysis (LPA) to identify at-risk profiles among 734 college freshmen (100% male) based on their Internet Addiction Test item ratings. We compared the levels of impulsivity, social support and depression among different profiles and investigated whether these variables could predict each latent internet addiction class. Results: LPA resulted in three distinct profiles: the low internet addiction group (42.10%), the moderate internet addiction group (35.70%) and the high internet addiction group (22.20%). Impulsivity and depression increased with internet addiction severity levels, whereas social support was inversely related to the severity of internet addiction. Male freshmen with high impulsivity, low social support and high depression were more likely to be included in the high internet addiction group. Conclusion: This study highlights that impulsivity, social support and depression may predict internet addiction in male college freshmen. Our findings have important practical implications for college educators and counselors in developing interventions for internet addiction.

Current Research and Viewpoints on Internet Addiction in Adolescents

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review describes recent research findings and contemporary viewpoints regarding internet addiction in adolescents including its nomenclature, prevalence, potential determinants, comorbid disorders, and treatment.

RECENT FINDINGS

Prevalence studies show findings that are disparate by location and vary widely by definitions being used. Impulsivity, aggression, and neuroticism potentially predispose youth to internet addiction. Cognitive behavioral therapy and medications that treat commonly co-occurring mental health problems including depression and ADHD hold considerable clinical promise for internet addiction.

SUMMARY

The inclusion of internet gaming disorder in the DSM-5 and the ICD-11 has prompted considerable work demonstrating the validity of these diagnostic approaches. However, there is also a movement for a conceptualization of the disorder that captures a broader range of media-use behaviors beyond only gaming. Efforts to resolve these approaches are necessary in order to standardize definitions and clinical approaches. Future work should focus on clinical investigations of treatments, especially in the USA, and longitudinal studies of the disorder's etiology.

Relationships between morningness, Big Five personality traits, and problematic Internet use in young adult university students: mediating role of depression

The aim of this study was twofold. Firstly, it explored the relationships between morningness, Big Five personality traits, depression, and problematic Internet use (PIU). Secondly, it examined the possible mediating role of depression in these relationships. The following measures were used: the Internet Addiction Test, the Composite Scale of Morningness, the International Personality Item Pool-Big Five Markers-20, and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. The participants in the study were 398 university students 18 to 30 (M = 20.37, SD = 2.29) years of age. The study found that PIU Total, PIU Mental Disorder, and PIU Time Management Disorder are positively related to depression and negatively related to morningness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, Conscientiousness, Emotional Stability, and Openness. PIU was more often found in individuals with an evening chronotype. The study confirmed the role of depression as a mediator in the relationship of personality traits and morningness to PIU Mental Disorder and PIU Time Management Disorder. For PIU Mental Disorder, the study revealed a full mediation effect of depression in the case of morningness, Emotional Stability, and Extraversion, and partial mediation in the case of Agreeableness and Intellect. For PIU Time Management Disorder, there was a full mediation effect of depression in the case of Emotional Stability, Extraversion, and Agreeableness, and partial mediation in the case of morningness and Intellect. The results highlight the importance of including depression when investigating the relationship between morningness and personality in studies of PIU.

Internet addiction in students from an educational institution in Southern Brazil: prevalence and associated factors

Objective

To evaluate the prevalence of Internet addiction (IA) and its associated factors among students at an Educational Institution in Southern Brazil.

Method

This is a cross-sectional study, targeting a sample of students aged from 14 to 20 years. They were selected by random sampling to be representative of the 4038 students enrolled at the institute at the time. IA was assessed using the Internet Addiction Test (IAT). Screening for anxiety and/or depressive disorders was performed using the Well-Being Index (WHO-5).

Results

The prevalence of IA was 50.8% and the rate was higher among individuals who had screened positive for depressive or anxiety disorders than among those who had not (p = 0.003). There was an association between IA and access to certain types of content, such as gaming (p = 0.010), work and study related content (p = 0.030), and using the internet to access sexual content (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Further studies are needed to confirm the high prevalence of IA and explore factors associated with it in samples with similar characteristics to ours. The associations between this dependency and positive screening for anxiety and/or depressive disorders and the types of content accessed are an alert to the existence of these important relationships and illustrate the importance of studying them further. Knowledge about these associations provides an opportunity to implement measures for prevention, such as psychoeducation, and to offer adequate treatment.

The Role of Facebook Intrusion, Depression, and Future Time Perspective in Sleep Problems Among Adolescents

The main aim of the study was to examine the determinants of sleep problems including Facebook intrusion, depression, and future time perspective. The participants were 426 adolescents, aged M = 14.68. The Future Time Perspective Scale, the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, the Facebook Intrusion Questionnaire, and the Medical Outcomes Study Sleep Scale were used. It was found that FTP goals were a negative predictor of Facebook intrusion and depression was a positive predictor of Facebook intrusion and sleep problems. Additionally, Facebook intrusion turned out to contribute positively to sleep problems. The results contribute to knowledge on excessive social media use and its relations with mental health; they can be applied in the treatment of addictive social media use.

Personal distress as a mediator between self-esteem, self-efficacy, loneliness and problematic video gaming in female and male emerging adult gamers

The aim of our research was to investigate the predictors of Problematic Video Gaming (PVG) in emerging adulthood. From among the factors which were considered significant in previous studies, we decided to include the following in our research: empathy, self-esteem, self-efficacy and loneliness. Additionally, we wanted to examine which predictors have a direct or indirect effect on PVG in female and male emerging adult gamers group. Including a sample of 370 video game players (201 female gamers) aged 18-30 years (M = 21.66 years, SD = 2.83) participated in this study and were asked to complete self-report measures. The questionnaires included: Problem Videogame Playing Questionnaire, The Interpersonal Reactivity Index, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, De Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale, General Self-Efficacy Scale. Our results indicate that empathy dimension associated with personal distress, the time spent playing computer games per week is directly associated with PVG. Also, there were found full mediation between self-esteem, loneliness, self-efficacy and PVG via personal distress in emerging adult male gamers group. In emerging adult female gamers group personal distress fully mediated relation between self-esteem, self-efficacy and PVG. Our findings indicate that the time spent playing video games, as well as personal distress as a function of self-esteem, loneliness and self-efficacy, are predictors of problematic video gaming. Additionally, our results may lead to a better understanding of PVG among emerging adults. In particular, they may point to the importance of personal distress in relation to PVG during emerging adulthood, which is a developmental stage of many changes in social and professional life.

Personal Factors, Internet Characteristics, and Environmental Factors Contributing to Adolescent Internet Addiction: A Public Health Perspective

Individual characteristics, family- and school-related variables, and environmental variables have equal importance in understanding Internet addiction. Most previous studies on Internet addiction have focused on individual factors; those that considered environmental influence typically only examined the proximal environment. Effective prevention and intervention of Internet addiction require a framework that integrates individual- and environmental-level factors. This study examined the relationships between personal factors, family/school factors, perceived Internet characteristics, and environmental variables as they contribute to Internet addiction among adolescents based on the public health model. A representative sample of 1628 junior high school students from 56 regions in Seoul and Gyeonggi-do participated in the study via questionnaires with the cooperation of the Ministry of Health and Welfare and the district office of education. The study analyzed psychological factors, family cohesion, attitudes toward academic activities, Internet characteristics, accessibility to PC cafés, and exposure to Internet game advertising. About 6% of the adolescents were categorized as being in the severely addicted group. Between-group comparisons showed that the addicted group had started using the Internet earlier; had higher levels of depression, compulsivity, and aggressiveness as well as lower family cohesion; and reported higher accessibility to PC cafés and exposure to Internet game advertising. Multiple logistic regression indicated that for adolescents, environmental factors had a greater influence than family or school-related factors. Policy implications for prevention and intervention are discussed.

The Mediating Role of Coping Styles on Impulsivity, Behavioral Inhibition/Approach System, and Internet Addiction in Adolescents From a Gender Perspective

Previous findings have shown that impulsivity and Behavioral Inhibition/Approach System (BIS/BAS) have substantial effects on adolescents’ Internet addiction, but the mechanisms underlying these associations and gender differences in these effects have received little attention. We examined the mediating effects of coping styles from impulsivity, and BIS/BAS to Internet addiction as well as gender differences in these associations. A total of 416 Chinese adolescents were examined using a cross-sectional survey involving Young’s Diagnostic Questionnaire for Internet Addiction, Barratt Impulsiveness Scale, BIS/BAS scales, and Coping Style Scale for Middle School Students. The data were analyzed using the independent sample t-test, chi-square test, Pearson correlation, and structure equation modeling. The results from the multiple-group (by adolescent gender) structural model analysis revealed that both impulsivity (p < 0.001) and BIS (p = 0.001) directly predicted positive Internet addiction in girls, while both impulsivity (p = 0.011) and BAS (p = 0.048) directly predicted positive Internet addiction in boys. Furthermore, emotion-focused coping mediated the relationship between impulsivity and Internet addiction (β = 0.080, 95% CI: 0.023–0.168) and the relationship between BIS and Internet addiction (β = 0.064, 95% CI: 0.013–0.153) in girls, while in boys, problem-focused coping and emotion-focused coping mediated the association between impulsivity and Internet addiction (β = 0.118, 95% CI: 0.031–0.251; β = 0.065, 95% CI: 0.010–0.160, respectively) and problem-focused coping mediated the association between BAS and Internet addiction [β = −0.058, 95% CI: (−0.142)–(−0.003)]. These findings extend our insight into the mechanisms underlying the associations among impulsivity, BIS/BAS, and Internet addiction in adolescents and suggest that gender-sensitive training approaches to decrease adolescents’ Internet addiction are indispensable. These interventions should focus on the different gender predictors of adolescent Internet addiction and on the development of specific coping styles for boys and girls respectively.