Diagnostic Criteria for Problematic Internet Use among U.S. University Students: A Mixed-Methods Evaluation

Abstract

Empirical studies have identified increasing rates of problematic Internet use worldwide and a host of related negative consequences. However, researchers disagree as to whether problematic Internet use is a subtype of behavioral addiction. Thus, there are not yet widely accepted and validated diagnostic criteria for problematic Internet use. To address this gap, we used mixed-methods to examine the extent to which signs and symptoms of problematic Internet use mirror DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for substance use disorder, gambling disorder, and Internet gaming disorder. A total of 27 university students, who self-identified as intensive Internet users and who reported Internet-use-associated health and/or psychosocial problems were recruited. Students completed two measures that assess problematic Internet use (Young’s Diagnostic Questionnaire and the Compulsive Internet Use Scale) and participated in focus groups exploring their experiences with problematic Internet use. Results of standardized measures and focus group discussions indicated substantial overlap between students’ experiences of problematic Internet use and the signs and symptoms reflected in the DSM-5 criteria for substance use disorder, gambling disorder, and Internet gaming disorder. These signs and symptoms included: a) use Internet longer than intended, b) preoccupation with the Internet, c) withdrawal symptoms when unable to access the Internet, d) unsuccessful attempts to stop or reduce Internet use, e) craving, f) loss of interest in hobbies or activities other than the Internet, g) excessive Internet use despite the knowledge of related problems, g) use of the Internet to escape or relieve a negative mood, and h) lying about Internet use. Tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, and recurrent Internet use in hazardous situations were uniquely manifested in the context of problematic Internet use. Implications for research and practice are discussed.

Pathological Internet Use and Risk-Behaviors among European Adolescents

“…The YDQ is an 8-item questionnaire assessing patterns of Internet usage that result in psychological or social impairment during the six-month period preceding data collection [ 48 ]. The eight items in the YDQ correspond to the six items in Griffiths’ components model and nine items in the diagnostic criteria of IGD in the DSM-5 [ 49 , 50 ]. Based on the YDQ score, ranging from 0–8, Internet users were categorized into three groups: adaptive Internet users (AIU) (scoring 0–2); maladaptive Internet users (MIU) (scoring 3–4); and pathological Internet users (PIU) (scoring ≥ 5) [ 51 ].…”

Autonomic stress reactivity and craving in individuals with problematic Internet use

“…Few studies have investigated the relationship between stress reactivity and PIU using self-report measures. Specifically, it has been shown that stressful life events were positively correlated with Internet addiction [ 31 ]. Furthermore, perceived stress has been found to be one of the predictors of PIU for sexual purposes [ 32 ], and PIU appears to be associated with stress, depression and anxiety symptoms [ 33 ].…”

Effect of Gender and Physical Activity on Internet Addiction in Medical Students

“…Youth and particularly college going young adults are at an increased risk of problematic internet use due to free internet access at college campuses and absence of strict parental supervision. Excessive internet usage in university students results not only in psychological but physical problems which leads to deterioration in their academic performance 6. In the modern life style where technology including internet has facilitated man, it can be a possible cause of reduced physical activity 7.…”