College Students and Problematic Internet Use: A Pilot Study Assessing Self-Appraisal and Independent Behavior Change

Abstract

PurposeProblematic Internet Use (PIU) is a growing health concern; universal screening and validated interventions remain elusive. This pilot study's purpose was to assess participants’ self-appraisal of PIU risk, and the subsequent frequency and outcome of behavior change after validated PIU screening. MethodsIn this 3-year study, college student participants reported yearly self-appraised PIU risk, and then completed a problematic and risky internet use screening scale. At Time 3, participants reported behavior change based on Time 2 screening. ResultsOur 283 participants were 57% female and 75% Caucasian. Participants’ self-appraisal of PIU risk had a sensitivity of 23%–39%. Of 29 participants at risk at Time 2, six (20.6%) reported attempted behavior change at Time 3, though 83.3% remained at risk. ConclusionsCollege students have varied capacity to assess and implement effective behavior change regarding PIU. The role of providers in identification and intervention for PIU remains critical.