Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
5.4
Journals
IJERPH
Special Issues
Internet-Related Addictions and Health
ijerph-logo
Submit to IJERPH Review for IJERPH Propose a Special Issue

Journal Menu

► Journal Menu

Journal Browser

► Journal Browser
share announcement

Internet-Related Addictions and Health

A special issue of International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (ISSN 1660-4601). This special issue belongs to the section "Health Behavior, Chronic Disease and Health Promotion".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (15 November 2019) | Viewed by 89217

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Anise M. S. Wu

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences & Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Institute of Collaborative Innovation, University of Macau, Macao, China
Interests: behavioral addictions; health psychology; mental health
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Phoenix K. H. Mo

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Center for Health Behaviours Research, JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
Interests: health psychology; behavioral health research; psychological aspects in disease prevention and management; Internet on health and patient empowerment; mental health in minorities and disease populations
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. Joseph Tak-fai Lau

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Health Behaviours Research, Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
Interests: vaccination; emerging infectious diseases; interdisciplinary research; health education and promotion; COVID-19; influenza; randomized controlled trial; epidemiology; behavioral science
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are organizing a Special Issue on Internet-related addictions and health in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.

Internet-related addictions have been widely reported worldwide and are considered an emergent serious global health threat. They involve problematic use of online activities (e.g., gaming and social networking) in the presence of addiction symptoms such as preoccupation, tolerance development, and withdrawal symptoms. They interfere with many aspects of our daily life including academic/work performance, physical activity level, mental state, emotional state, and social interactions. Poor physical/psychosocial health is also a risk factor of Internet-related addiction.

This Special Issue aims to offer the reader the latest findings about Internet-related addictions, associated problems, and physical/psychosocial health in different populations, as well as the potential factors and mechanisms involved. We welcome high-quality research papers on this subject for this Special Issue. The keywords listed below provide some of the many possible topics.

Prof. Anise M. S. Wu
Prof. Phoenix K. H. Mo
Prof. Joseph Tak-fai Lau
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2500 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • Online gaming, social networking, online gambling, online shopping, cybersex and other online addictive behaviors
  • Internet gaming disorder
  • Internet addiction and problematic Internet use
  • Physical health
  • Psychosocial health
  • Subjective wellbeing
  • Comorbidity
  • Longitudinal studies
  • Intervention studies
  • Meta-analysis
  • Prevention and treatment
  • Management

Published Papers (16 papers)

Download All Papers
Order results
Result details
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Editorial

Jump to: Research, Review

4 pages, 258 KiB  
Editorial
Internet-Related Addictions: From Measurements to Interventions
by Phoenix K. H. Mo, Juliet Honglei Chen, Joseph T. F. Lau and Anise M. S. Wu
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(7), 2539; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph17072539 - 08 Apr 2020
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2246
Abstract
Ever since the invention of the World Wide Web in 1989 [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Internet-Related Addictions and Health)

Research

Jump to: Editorial, Review

13 pages, 460 KiB  
Article
Politically Motivated Internet Addiction: Relationships among Online Information Exposure, Internet Addiction, FOMO, Psychological Well-being, and Radicalism in Massive Political Turbulence
by Gary Tang, Eva P. W. Hung, Ho-Kong Christopher Au-Yeung and Samson Yuen
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(2), 633; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph17020633 - 18 Jan 2020
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 6756
Abstract
This research examines the mediating role of the tendency for Internet addiction, fear of missing out (FOMO), and psychological well-being in the relationship between online exposure to movement-related information and support for radical actions. A questionnaire survey that targets tertiary students was conducted [...] Read more.
This research examines the mediating role of the tendency for Internet addiction, fear of missing out (FOMO), and psychological well-being in the relationship between online exposure to movement-related information and support for radical actions. A questionnaire survey that targets tertiary students was conducted during the Anti-Extradition Law Amendment Bill (Anti-ELAB) Movement (N = 290). The findings reveal the mediating effect of Internet addiction and depression on the main relationship. These findings enrich the literature of political communication by addressing the political impact of Internet use beyond digital architecture. From the perspective of psychology, this research echoes the literature that concerns depression symptoms driven by a protest environment. Radical political attitudes driven by depression during protests should also be concerned based on the findings of this survey. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Internet-Related Addictions and Health)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 325 KiB  
Article
Prevalence and Interpersonal Correlates of Internet Gaming Disorders among Chinese Adolescents
by Xue Yang, Xuewen Jiang, Phoenix Kit-han Mo, Yong Cai, Le Ma and Joseph Tak-fai Lau
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(2), 579; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph17020579 - 16 Jan 2020
Cited by 62 | Viewed by 5724
Abstract
This study investigated the prevalence and interpersonal correlates of Internet gaming disorders (IGD) among Chinese adolescents. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in two cities (Shanghai and Xi’an) in China. A total of 2666 (Meanage = 12.77 ± 0.75) year-one students from eight [...] Read more.
This study investigated the prevalence and interpersonal correlates of Internet gaming disorders (IGD) among Chinese adolescents. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in two cities (Shanghai and Xi’an) in China. A total of 2666 (Meanage = 12.77 ± 0.75) year-one students from eight middle schools completed a self-reported questionnaire. It tested their levels of IGD, parental psychological control, negative interpersonal events (physical/verbal abuse by parents, verbal abuse by teachers, peer/online bullying), social support from parents/peers, and positive relationships with parents/peers. Results showed that 346 participants (13.0%) were classified as having IGD. Gender, city, single-parent family, family socio-economic status, and mother’s education level were significantly associated with the risk of IGD. Logistic regression analyses with and without controlling for the significant background variables showed that the studied interpersonal variables were significantly associated with IGD, respectively. Forward stepwise logistic regression showed that the significant correlates of IGD included parental psychological control, physical/verbal abuse by parents, verbal abuse by teachers, and peer/online bullying. Results highlight the importance of addressing interpersonal risk factors to reduce adolescent IGD. Limitations and implications of this study are discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Internet-Related Addictions and Health)
10 pages, 336 KiB  
Article
Predictors of Spontaneous Remission of Problematic Internet Use in Adolescence: A One-Year Follow-Up Study
by Lutz Wartberg and Katajun Lindenberg
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(2), 448; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph17020448 - 09 Jan 2020
Cited by 29 | Viewed by 5148
Abstract
Problematic use of the Internet is becoming increasingly important and especially for adolescents, high prevalence rates are reported in many countries. Despite the growing international research activities and the reported prevalence estimates, comparatively very few studies have focused on spontaneous remission and its [...] Read more.
Problematic use of the Internet is becoming increasingly important and especially for adolescents, high prevalence rates are reported in many countries. Despite the growing international research activities and the reported prevalence estimates, comparatively very few studies have focused on spontaneous remission and its possible causes. In a risk population of 272 adolescents, we used standardized diagnostic instruments to investigate which socio-demographic and psychosocial characteristics at baseline (at t1) predicted spontaneous remission of problematic Internet use one year later (at t2). The predictors were determined by bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. In the bivariate regressions, we found male gender, higher self-efficacy (t1), a lower level of maladaptive emotion regulation strategies (t1), lower depression (t1), lower performance and school anxiety (t1), lower social-interaction anxiety (t1), and lower procrastination (t1) to predict spontaneous remission of problematic Internet use at t2. In the multivariable analysis, a lower level of maladaptive emotion regulation strategies (t1) was the sole statistically significant predictor for the remission one year later (t2). For the first time, the high relevance of emotion regulation for spontaneous remission of adolescent problematic Internet use was observed. Based on these findings, emotion regulation could be specifically trained and promoted in future prevention measures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Internet-Related Addictions and Health)
12 pages, 317 KiB  
Article
Validation of the Chinese Version of the Revised Internet Gaming Cognition Scale among Adolescents in China: Maladaptive Cognitions as Potential Determinants of Internet Gaming Disorder
by Yanqiu Yu, Phoenix Kit-han Mo, Jianxin Zhang, Jibin Li and Joseph Tak-fai Lau
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(1), 290; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph17010290 - 31 Dec 2019
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 3011
Abstract
Maladaptive gaming cognitions are important determinants of Internet gaming disorder (IGD). Based on a systematic review, a 4-factor Internet gaming cognition scale (IGCS) was previously developed and cross-cultural validation of IGCS is warranted. The present study assesses the validation of the IGCS and [...] Read more.
Maladaptive gaming cognitions are important determinants of Internet gaming disorder (IGD). Based on a systematic review, a 4-factor Internet gaming cognition scale (IGCS) was previously developed and cross-cultural validation of IGCS is warranted. The present study assesses the validation of the IGCS and its revised version, the Chinese version of Revised IGCS (C-RIGCS), among adolescents in China. Altogether, 755 students were recruited from junior middle schools in Guangzhou and Chengdu, China. The psychometric properties of the C-RIGCS were assessed by using appropriate statistical methods. The 4-factor model of the original IGCS was not supported by confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). In the split-half sub-samples, exploratory factor analysis suggested a 3-factor model for C-RIGCS, which was confirmed by CFA. The C-RIGCS and its three subscales showed satisfactory internal reliability, test-retest reliability, content validity, and absence of ceiling and floor effects (except on one case). Besides, the C-RIGCS and its three subscales were significantly correlated with external variables including IGD, gaming time, impulsivity, and self-control, and perceptions that Internet gaming is the primary source of self-esteem and social acceptance. The C-RIGCS proposed a new 3-factor model that showed satisfactory psychometric properties. It can be applied to understand maladaptive gaming cognitions of adolescent IGD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Internet-Related Addictions and Health)
12 pages, 325 KiB  
Article
Problematic Internet Use and Smoking among Chinese Junior Secondary Students: The Mediating Role of Depressive Symptomatology and Family Support
by Phoenix Kit-han Mo, Ji-Bin Li, Hui Jiang and Joseph T. F. Lau
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(24), 5053; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph16245053 - 11 Dec 2019
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2833
Abstract
Background: Internet use is significant public health issue and can be a risk factor for other addictive behaviors, such as smoking. The present study examined the association between problematic Internet use (PIU) (i.e., Internet addiction (IA) and social networking addiction (SNA)) and [...] Read more.
Background: Internet use is significant public health issue and can be a risk factor for other addictive behaviors, such as smoking. The present study examined the association between problematic Internet use (PIU) (i.e., Internet addiction (IA) and social networking addiction (SNA)) and smoking, and the mediating role of depressive symptomatology and family support played in such associations. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 5182 junior secondary students (grade 7 and 8) recruited from nine schools using stratified sampling. Results: A total of 3.6% of students had smoked in the past month, and 6.4% of students were identified as IA cases. Adjusted for significant background variables, PIU (ORa = 2.07, 95% CI = 1.48, 2.90 for IA, ORa = 1.26, 95% CI = 1.09, 1.47 for SNA), and probable depression (ORa = 1.33, 95% CI = 1.05, 1.69) were significant risk factors, while family support (ORa = 0.85, 95% CI = 0.77, 0.94) was a significant protective factor of smoking. The mediation effects of lower family support and probable depression on the association between score on IA scale and smoking, and the mediation effect of lower family support on the association between score on SNA scale and smoking were significant, while the mediation effect of probable depression on the association between score on SNA scale and smoking was marginally significant. Conclusions: PIU contributed to an increased risk of smoking through depressive symptomatology and decreasing family support among junior school students. Interventions to reduce smoking are warranted; they should seek to reduce problematic Internet use and depressive symptomatology, and promote family support. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Internet-Related Addictions and Health)
14 pages, 648 KiB  
Article
The Effects of Need Satisfaction and Dissatisfaction on Flourishing among Young Chinese Gamers: The Mediating Role of Internet Gaming Disorder
by Bryant Pui Hung Hui, Anise M. S. Wu, Nicolson Y. F. Siu, Ming-Lun Chung and Ngai Pun
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(22), 4367; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph16224367 - 08 Nov 2019
Cited by 22 | Viewed by 4876
Abstract
Given the increasing popularity of online game playing, the negative impacts of game addiction on both adolescents and adults attracted our attention. Previous studies based on the self-determination theory have examined the effects of the three basic psychological needs of autonomy, competence, and [...] Read more.
Given the increasing popularity of online game playing, the negative impacts of game addiction on both adolescents and adults attracted our attention. Previous studies based on the self-determination theory have examined the effects of the three basic psychological needs of autonomy, competence, and relatedness on problematic video game playing among Chinese young adults. Yet, as more evidence emerged pointing to the possible relation between need dissatisfaction and higher vulnerability for ill-being and psychopathology, the present study aimed to incorporate the impacts of both satisfaction and dissatisfaction for autonomy, competence, and relatedness in explaining Internet gaming disorder (IGD), a condition that may in turn impede eudaimonic well-being as indicated by flourishing. In a self-administered online survey with a valid sample of 1200 Chinese young adults aged 18–24 years (mean age = 19.48 years), the prevalence of probable IGD (for those who reported five or more symptoms in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) symptom list for IGD) was 7.5%. Our results showed that relatedness dissatisfaction positively predicted IGD symptoms after controlling for other need satisfaction and dissatisfaction. Also, flourishing was found to be negatively predicted by IGD. Finally, IGD was found to mediate the effect of relatedness dissatisfaction on flourishing. Our findings suggested a risk factor of relatedness dissatisfaction in predicting IGD, thereby significantly predicting flourishing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Internet-Related Addictions and Health)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 510 KiB  
Article
The Clinical Utility of the Chen Internet Addiction Scale—Gaming Version, for Internet Gaming Disorder in the DSM-5 among Young Adults
by Chih-Hung Ko, Sue-Huei Chen, Chih-Hung Wang, Wen-Xiang Tsai and Ju-Yu Yen
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(21), 4141; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph16214141 - 28 Oct 2019
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 5104
Abstract
Objectives: The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) includes the diagnostic criteria for Internet gaming disorder (IGD). This study evaluated (1) the screening, diagnostic, and prevalence-estimated cutoff points of the Chen Internet Addiction Scale–Gaming Version (CIAS-G) for IGD [...] Read more.
Objectives: The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) includes the diagnostic criteria for Internet gaming disorder (IGD). This study evaluated (1) the screening, diagnostic, and prevalence-estimated cutoff points of the Chen Internet Addiction Scale–Gaming Version (CIAS-G) for IGD in the DSM-5; and (2) the differences in the CIAS-G and subscale scores among individuals with IGD, regular gamers (RGs), and other control subjects. Methods: We recruited 69 participants with IGD, 69 RGs, and 69 healthy participants based on diagnostic interviews conducted by a psychiatrist according to DSM-5 IGD criteria. All participants completed the CIAS-G and were assessed using the clinical global impression scale. Results: The optimal screening and diagnostic cutoff points were 68 or more (sensitivity, 97.1%; specificity, 76.8%) and 72 or more (sensitivity, 85.5%; specificity, 87.0%) for IGD based on DSM-5 criteria, respectively. The 76 or more cutoff point had the highest number needed to misdiagnose and was the optimal prevalence estimated cutoff point. Conclusions: The screening cutoff point could be used to identify individuals with IGD for further diagnostic interviewing to confirm the diagnosis in the clinical setting or for two-stage epidemiological evaluation. The diagnostic cutoff point provides a provisional diagnosis of IGD when diagnostic interviewing is unavailable. The prevalence-estimated cutoff point could be used to estimate the prevalence of IGD in large-scale epidemiological investigations when further diagnostic interviewing is impractical. The clinical and epidemiological utility of CIAS-G warrants further study. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Internet-Related Addictions and Health)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 926 KiB  
Article
Profiles of Problematic Internet Use and Its Impact on Adolescents’ Health-Related Quality of Life
by Juan M. Machimbarrena, Joaquín González-Cabrera, Jéssica Ortega-Barón, Marta Beranuy-Fargues, Aitor Álvarez-Bardón and Blanca Tejero
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(20), 3877; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph16203877 - 13 Oct 2019
Cited by 66 | Viewed by 7623
Abstract
The internet has been a breakthrough for adolescents in many ways, but its use can also become dysfunctional and problematic, leading to consequences for personal well-being. The main objective is to analyze profiles related to problematic internet use and its relationship with health-related [...] Read more.
The internet has been a breakthrough for adolescents in many ways, but its use can also become dysfunctional and problematic, leading to consequences for personal well-being. The main objective is to analyze profiles related to problematic internet use and its relationship with health-related quality of life (HRQoL). An analytical and cross-sectional study was carried out in a region of northern Spain. The sample comprised 12,285 participants. Sampling was random and representative. Mean age and standard deviation was 14.69 ± 1.73 (11–18 years). The Spanish versions of the Problematic and Generalized Internet Use Scale (GPIUS2) and of the Health-Related Quality of Life (KIDSCREEN-27) were used. Four profiles were detected (non-problematic use, mood regulator, problematic internet use, and severe problematic use). The prevalence of these last two profiles was 18.5% and 4.9%, respectively. Problematic internet use correlated negatively and significantly with HRQoL. The severe problematic use profile presented a significant decrease in all dimensions of HRQoL. Analyses were carried out to extract a cut-off point for GPIUS2 (52 points). The results and practical implications are discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Internet-Related Addictions and Health)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 627 KiB  
Article
Internet Interpersonal Connection Mediates the Association between Personality and Internet Addiction
by Yun-Hsuan Chang, Yun-Ting Lee and Shulan Hsieh
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(19), 3537; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph16193537 - 21 Sep 2019
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3834
Abstract
Backgrounds: The development of the Internet has changed interpersonal interactions, so that people no longer need to physically meet each other. However, some people are more vulnerable to becoming addicted to Internet activities, something to which the ease of Internet access and usage [...] Read more.
Backgrounds: The development of the Internet has changed interpersonal interactions, so that people no longer need to physically meet each other. However, some people are more vulnerable to becoming addicted to Internet activities, something to which the ease of Internet access and usage has contributed. In this study, we examined the association between personality traits and feelings about online interpersonal interactions to predict Internet addiction. This was accomplished using an online advertisement that asked participants to complete the questionnaires in the laboratory. Methods: Two hundred and twenty-three participants with a mean age of 22.50 years were recruited for this study and asked to complete the following questionnaires: the Beck Depressive Inventory (BDI), the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), the Chen Internet Addiction Scale (CIAS), the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire (EPQ), the Internet Usage Questionnaire (IUQ) and the Feelings of Internet Interpersonal Interaction Questionnaire (FIIIQ). Results: The results showed that people with a neurotic personality and anxious feelings about Internet interpersonal interactions are more likely to become addicted to the Internet. In addition, people with neuroticism and who are more anxious about Internet interpersonal relationships are more likely to develop Internet addiction. Conclusions: People who tend to develop new interpersonal relationships via the Internet and be anxious about online interpersonal relationships are more vulnerable to becoming addicted to the Internet. The individuals who are more anxious about Internet interpersonal interaction and tend to develop new interpersonal relationships via the Internet are more likely to develop Internet addiction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Internet-Related Addictions and Health)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 640 KiB  
Article
The Predictive Value of Emotional Intelligence for Internet Gaming Disorder: A 1-Year Longitudinal Study
by Della L. Dang, Meng Xuan Zhang, Karlas Kin-hei Leong and Anise M. S. Wu
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(15), 2762; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph16152762 - 02 Aug 2019
Cited by 28 | Viewed by 6141
Abstract
This one-year longitudinal study examined trait emotional intelligence as a predictor of Internet gaming disorder (IGD). To date, only cross-sectional research has been conducted to test the protective effects of emotional intelligence against IGD tendency. Based on the Interaction of Person-Affect-Cognition-Execution (I-PACE) model, [...] Read more.
This one-year longitudinal study examined trait emotional intelligence as a predictor of Internet gaming disorder (IGD). To date, only cross-sectional research has been conducted to test the protective effects of emotional intelligence against IGD tendency. Based on the Interaction of Person-Affect-Cognition-Execution (I-PACE) model, this study aimed to address the research gap by examining not only the direct effects of trait emotional intelligence, but also its indirect effects (via depressive symptoms and coping flexibility) on IGD, with both a cross-sectional and longitudinal design. The participants were 282 Chinese university students (mean age = 20.47; 39.4% males) who voluntarily completed an anonymous questionnaire at both baseline (W1) and one-year follow-up (W2). Path analysis results revealed that trait emotional intelligence had a protective but indirect effect on IGD tendency in both our cross-sectional and longitudinal data. Depression was found to have a significant, full mediating effect on the relationship between: (i) trait emotional intelligence and IGD tendency (W2) and (ii) coping flexibility and IGD tendency (W2), after adjusting for IGD tendency at the baseline (W1). Gender invariance of the path coefficient was also observed in the prospective model. This study provided longitudinal evidence to support the I-PACE model. Interventions should address both IGD and depressive symptoms, and school-based workshops to increase emotional intelligence and coping flexibility are also recommended. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Internet-Related Addictions and Health)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 611 KiB  
Article
Interaction of Health Literacy and Problematic Mobile Phone Use and Their Impact on Non-Suicidal Self-Injury among Chinese Adolescents
by Danlin Li, Rong Yang, Yuhui Wan, Fangbiao Tao, Jun Fang and Shichen Zhang
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(13), 2366; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph16132366 - 03 Jul 2019
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 3315
Abstract
Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is prevalent among adolescents. Low health literacy (HL) and problematic mobile phone use (PMPU) are risk factors of NSSI. But so far, no study has examined the interactive role of HL and PMPU on NSSI. In this context, the present [...] Read more.
Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is prevalent among adolescents. Low health literacy (HL) and problematic mobile phone use (PMPU) are risk factors of NSSI. But so far, no study has examined the interactive role of HL and PMPU on NSSI. In this context, the present study aimed to examine the interactions of HL and PMPU and their impact on NSSI in a school-based sample of Chinese adolescents. A total of 22,628 junior and high school students (10,990 males and 11,638 females) were enrolled in this study. The outcomes were self-reported HL, PMPU and NSSI. Analyses were conducted with chi-square tests and logistic regression models. The prevalence of NSSI was 32.1%. Low HL and PMPU were significantly associated with NSSI independently (ORlow HL = 1.886, 95% CI = 1.723–2.065, ORPMPU = 2.062, 95% CI = 1.934–2.199). Interaction analysis indicated that low HL and PMPU were interactively associated with increased risks of NSSI (OR = 2.617, 95% CI = 2.375–2.884). In all, our findings indicate that HL and PMPU are associated with NSSI independently and interactively. The intervention programs of NSSI should consider the adolescents HL levels and PMPU. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Internet-Related Addictions and Health)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 751 KiB  
Article
Development and Validation of a Parent-Based Program for Preventing Gaming Disorder: The Game Over Intervention
by Angel Yee-lam Li, Chor-lam Chau and Cecilia Cheng
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(11), 1984; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph16111984 - 04 Jun 2019
Cited by 22 | Viewed by 7767
Abstract
Since the inclusion of gaming disorder in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) as a condition for further study, there has been an increasing consensus that problematic gaming can be detrimental to mental health, yet efforts [...] Read more.
Since the inclusion of gaming disorder in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) as a condition for further study, there has been an increasing consensus that problematic gaming can be detrimental to mental health, yet efforts in preventing such problems from emerging have been limited. To address this gap, we developed the Game Over Intervention (GOI), a parent-based program designed based on the frameworks of ecological systems theory and self-determination theory. This study aimed to test the efficacy of the new program using the method of a randomized controlled trial, with the control condition being a program for effective learning. Participants were the parents of upper primary school students, with 163 (77% women; Mage = 42.70) and 199 (83% women; Mage = 41.82) partaking in the intervention and the control conditions, respectively. Participants rated their children’s gaming time, exposure to violent video games, and symptoms of gaming disorder at three time points: baseline, one week after intervention, and three months after intervention. The results indicate a general reduction in these three criteria across the three-month period. Our study provides tentative evidence demonstrating the effectiveness of the GOI in mitigating some gaming-related problems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Internet-Related Addictions and Health)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

39 pages, 3331 KiB  
Article
COPE.er Method: Combating Digital Addiction via Online Peer Support Groups
by Amen Alrobai, Abdullah Algashami, Huseyin Dogan, Tessa Corner, Keith Phalp and Raian Ali
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(7), 1162; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph16071162 - 31 Mar 2019
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 6884
Abstract
Digital addiction (hereafter DA) denotes a problematic relationship with technology described by being compulsive, obsessive, impulsive and hasty. New research has identified cases where users’ digital behaviour shows symptoms meeting the clinical criteria of behavioural addiction. The online peer groups approach is one [...] Read more.
Digital addiction (hereafter DA) denotes a problematic relationship with technology described by being compulsive, obsessive, impulsive and hasty. New research has identified cases where users’ digital behaviour shows symptoms meeting the clinical criteria of behavioural addiction. The online peer groups approach is one of the strategies to combat addictive behaviours. Unlike other behaviours, intervention and addictive usage can be on the same medium; the online space. This shared medium empowers influence techniques found in peer groups, such as self-monitoring, social surveillance, and personalised feedback, with a higher degree of interactivity, continuity and real-time communication. Social media platforms in general and online peer groups, in particular, have received little guidance as to how software design should take it into account. Careful theoretical understanding of the unique attributes and dynamics of such platforms and their intersection with gamification and persuasive techniques is needed as the ad-hoc design may cause unexpected harm. In this paper, we investigate how to facilitate the design process to ensure a systematic development of this technology. We conducted several qualitative studies including user studies and observational investigations. The primary contribution of this research is twofold: (i) a reference model for designing interactive online platforms to host peer groups and combat DA, (ii) a process model, COPE.er, inspired by the participatory design approach to building Customisable Online Persuasive Ecology by Engineering Rehabilitation strategies for different groups. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Internet-Related Addictions and Health)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Editorial, Research

20 pages, 1175 KiB  
Review
A Literature Review and Gap Analysis of Emerging Technologies and New Trends in Gambling
by Sharon Lawn, Candice Oster, Ben Riley, David Smith, Michael Baigent and Mubarak Rahamathulla
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(3), 744; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph17030744 - 23 Jan 2020
Cited by 43 | Viewed by 11185
Abstract
There have been significant changes in the gambling landscape particularly relating to gambling in the digital age. As the gambling landscape changes, regulation of gambling also needs to change. In 2018, the Office of Responsible Gambling in New South Wales, Australia, commissioned a [...] Read more.
There have been significant changes in the gambling landscape particularly relating to gambling in the digital age. As the gambling landscape changes, regulation of gambling also needs to change. In 2018, the Office of Responsible Gambling in New South Wales, Australia, commissioned a gap analysis to inform their research objectives and priority focus areas. This included an identification of gaps in our understanding of emerging technologies and new trends in gambling. A gap analysis of the peer-reviewed literature published since 2015 was undertaken, identifying 116 articles. The main area of focus was Internet gambling, followed by articles exploring the relationship between video gaming and gambling, the expansion of the sports betting market, Electronic Gambling Machines characteristics and articles exploring new technologies and trends in advertising and inducements. Key gaps related to the need for more research in general, as well as research focusing on subpopulations such as those using different gambling formats, those with varying levels of problem gambling, and vulnerable populations. From a methods perspective, researchers saw the need for longitudinal studies, more qualitative research and improved outcome measures. The development and testing of a public health approach to addressing the harms associated with gambling in these areas is needed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Internet-Related Addictions and Health)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 860 KiB  
Review
A Scoping Review of Cognitive Bias in Internet Addiction and Internet Gaming Disorders
by Doris X.Y. Chia and Melvyn W.B. Zhang
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(1), 373; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph17010373 - 06 Jan 2020
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 5575
Abstract
Internet addiction and Internet gaming disorders are increasingly prevalent. Whilst there has been much focus on the use of conventional psychological approaches in the treatment of individuals with these addictive disorders, there has also been ongoing research exploring the potential of cognitive bias [...] Read more.
Internet addiction and Internet gaming disorders are increasingly prevalent. Whilst there has been much focus on the use of conventional psychological approaches in the treatment of individuals with these addictive disorders, there has also been ongoing research exploring the potential of cognitive bias modification amongst individuals with Internet and gaming addiction. Some studies have documented the presence of cognitive biases and the effectiveness of bias modification for Internet addiction and gaming disorders. However, there have not been any reviews that have synthesized the findings related to cognitive biases for Internet addiction and Internet gaming disorders. It is important for us to undertake a scoping review as an attempt to map out the literature for cognitive biases in Internet addiction and gaming disorders. A scoping review was undertaken, and articles were identified using a search through the following databases: PubMed, MEDLINE, and PsycINFO. Six articles were identified. There were differences in the methods of ascertaining whether an individual has an underlying Internet or gaming addiction, as several different instruments have been used. With regards to the characteristics of the cognitive bias assessment task utilized, the most common task used was that of the Stroop task. Of the six identified studies, five have provided evidence documenting the presence of cognitive biases in these disorders. Only one study has examined cognitive bias modification and provided support for its effectiveness. Whilst several studies have provided preliminary findings documenting the presence of cognitive biases in these disorders, there remains a need for further research evaluating the effectiveness of bias modification, as well as the standardization of the diagnostic tools and the task paradigms used in the assessment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Internet-Related Addictions and Health)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
 
Displaying articles 1-16
Back to TopTop