Abstract
BackgroundParents are increasingly seeking advice in clinical practice about how to deal with the excessive internet use of their children.AimsThe objectives of this study were to determine the epidemiology, phenomenology and criteria of dysfunctional internet use and addiction.Material and methodsIn a European Union-wide study, a total of 13,284 boys and girls between 14 and 17 years of age were thoroughly assessed.ResultsAlmost all youth used the internet on a regular basis. The mean proportion of youth with clear signs of addictive use in Europe was 1.2 % (Germany 0.9 %) and 12.7 % (Germany 9.7 %) are regarded as being at risk. Risk factors for addictive use were age, male gender, low education and preferential use of online gaming and gambling. Compared to functional users, dysfunctional users show considerable impairments regarding a broad range of mental problems, especially aggression, attention-related, social, and also achievement problems. Based on qualitative assessments, four types of internet users were determined which differ regarding self-regulation and motivation for change: type A “stuck online”, type B “juggling it all”, type C “coming full cycle” and type D “killing boredom”.ConclusionBased on a large number of youth, the study delineates clearly serious developmental problems of youth occurring in dysfunctional and addictive uses. These are of high relevance for pediatrics. Recommendations are given for diagnosis, prevention and treatment.
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