Exploration and consideration of media problems in the psychotherapy of adults: An online survey of psychotherapists

Abstract

Exploration and consideration of media problems in the psychotherapy of adults: An online survey of psychotherapists Background: The inclusion of media-related behavioral addictions in DSM-5 and ICD-11 indicates the necessity of media anamnesis as secondary prevention (early detection) in psychotherapy. Objectives: The aim of the study was to document the extent of media problems in therapeutic practice and to identify factors related to exploration (media anamnesis). Method: Using an online survey (11/2019-03/2020), N = 160 psychotherapists from Germany and Austria were interviewed. Design: a self-constructed questionnaire plus standardised scales, i. e. subscales E1 and E2 of Therapeutic Identity Questionnaire (ThId), scales for affinity to techniques (TA-EG) and personality (BFI-10). Results: Of the participating psychotherapists 60 % reported patients with media-issues, of which (54 %) consider themselves competent in respective treatment, 72 % did not participate in further training; however, the ones attended did not feel competent of handling media-issues in psychotherapy after training. Two thirds (63 %) did not/rather did not explore media consumption in anamnesis and treatment. The exploration of media consumption was significantly related to specific training, the personality dimensions neuroticism and openness, and an affinity for technology. Conclusions: Current further training courses do not meet the needs of psychotherapists and should be adapted. The personality dimensions of the psychotherapists play a role in handling media problems in psychotherapy.