Prevalence Of Pathological Internet Use Research Articles

Prevalence and Associated Factors of Pathological Internet Use and Online Risky Behaviors Among Japanese Elementary School Children.

BackgroundLittle is known about pathological Internet use (PIU) and online risky behaviors among elementary school children. We aimed to investigate the prevalence and factors associated with PIU and online risky behaviors.MethodsA school-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Toyama, Japan in 2018. The study included 13,413 children in the 4th–6th grades (mean, 10.5 years old) from 110 elementary schools (61.1% of elementary schools in Toyama). We assessed PIU using Young’s Diagnostic Questionnaire (YDQ) and risky behaviors. Poisson regression analysis was conducted.ResultsTotally, 13,092 children returned questionnaires (response rate 97.6%). The prevalence of PIU was 4.2% and that of each risky behavior was as follows: 21.6% for spending money online, 6.6% for uploading personal movies, 5.2% for interpersonal issues, and 2.4% for having met strangers. PIU was significantly associated with boys (prevalence ratio [PR] 1.26; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.04–1.52), skipping breakfast (PR 1.43; 95% CI, 1.14–1.79), Internet time (for 2∼3 h, PR 3.49; 95% CI, 2.63–4.65; for 3∼4 h, PR 4.45; 95% CI, 3.27–6.06; and for ≥4 h, PR 8.25; 95% CI, 6.45–10.55), physical inactivity (PR 2.63; 95% CI, 2.00–3.47), late bedtime (PR 1.86; 95% CI, 1.45–2.39 for ≥11 p.m.), no rules at home (PR 1.22; 95% CI, 1.01–1.46), no child-parent interaction (PR 1.37; 95% CI, 1.06–1.77), and no close friends in real life (PR 1.69; 95% CI, 1.30–2.19).ConclusionsPIU and risky behaviors were not rare among the elementary school children. Besides unhealthy lifestyles, social and family environments were associated with PIU. Having child-parent interaction and helping children develop close friendships in real life are effective deterrents to PIU.

Pathological internet use and its correlation with big five inventory traits among first-year undergraduate medical students

Context: The explosive growth of the internet in the last decade has had a huge impact on psychological research in understanding its role in communication and interpersonal behavior. There has been increased interest in the addictive potential of the internet and the effect this can have on psychological well-being. Aims: To study the prevalence of pathological internet use (PIU) and the correlation between PIU and big five personality traits among first-year MBBS students. Settings and Design: The present study with cross-sectional design was conducted in one of the government medical colleges of Gujarat. Subjects and Methods: First-year MBBS students (n = 226) newly admitted in Government medical college, Surat in the year 2018–2019 were enrolled in the study. The internet use pattern was assessed using PIU scale, and the evaluation of their personality traits was done using The Big 5 Inventory. Statistical Analysis Used: Statistical analysis was done by Chi-square test and independent samples t-test. Results and Conclusions: Results showed that prevalence of PIU among first-year MBBS students was high (68.28%). Students who did not take MBBS by their own choice and were living in hostel had more PIU, whereas it was almost equal in both the genders and family type. PIU was found less in students with conscientiousness and openness personality traits and high in students with neuroticism personality trait (P < 0.05). PIU is predictable by measuring the personality characteristics of the students.

Pathological Internet Use and Psychosocial Risk Factors among ASEAN University Students

Background: Pathological internet use may lead to serious psychosocial problems and dysfunction. Objectives: The purpose of the study was to investigate the prevalence of pathological internet use among undergraduate university students in five ASEAN countries in relation to sociodemographics, internet use variables, psychosocial factors, and comorbid symptoms. Methods: In a cross-sectional survey in 2015 in Indonesia (Yogyakarta), Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur), Myanmar (Yangon), Thailand (MahaSarakham), and Vietnam (Hanoi), 3240 undergraduate university students (Mean age = 20.5 years, SD = 1.6), who were randomly selected,responded to a questionnaire including the “Young Diagnostic Questionnaire for Internet Addiction” (YDQ) and other measures. Results: Overall, the prevalences of pathological internet use were 35.9% (ranging from 16.1% in Myanmar to 52.4% in Thailand), maladaptive use 34.8% and adjusted Internet users 29.9%. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, internet use variables (heavy overall Internet use, heavy Internet use for recreational purposes, and heavy smartphone use), psychosocial factors (the experience of childhood physical abuse, childhood sexual abuse, lack of social support, and poor academic performance), and comorbid symptoms (having a self-classified gambling problem, hazardous or harmful alcohol use, past 12-month drug use, severe depression, sleeping problems, having attempted a suicide, and PTSD symptoms) were found to be associated with pathological internet use. Conclusions: The study found a very high prevalence of pathological internet use; those students lacking psychosocial support and having comorbid symptoms were at the highest risk.

Pathological Internet Use Is on the Rise Among European Adolescents

PurposeIncreased Internet accessibility has been accompanied by an increased awareness of pathological Internet use (PIU). The aim of the study was to investigate a potential increase of PIU among European adolescents. MethodsComparable data from two large cross-sectional multicentre, school-based studies conducted in 2009/2010 and 2011/2012 in five European countries (Estonia, Germany, Italy, Romania, and Spain) were used. The Young's Diagnostic Questionnaire was used to assess the prevalence of PIU. ResultsThe comparison of the two samples provides evidence that the prevalence of PIU is on the rise (4.01%–6.87%, odds ratio = 1.69, p < .001) except in Germany. Comparison with data on Internet accessibility suggests that the rise in prevalence of adolescent PIU may be a consequence of increased Internet accessibility. ConclusionsOur findings are the first data to confirm the rise of PIU among European adolescents. They definitively warrant further efforts in the implementation and evaluation of preventive interventions.

A 2-year longitudinal study of prospective predictors of pathological Internet use in adolescents

Longitudinal studies of prospective predictors for pathological Internet use (PIU) in adolescents as well as its course are lacking. This three-wave longitudinal study was conducted within the framework of the European Union-funded project "Saving and Empowering Young Lives in Europe" over a 2-year period. The sample consisted of 1444 students at the baseline investigation (T0); 1202 students after 1year (T1); and 515 students after 2years (T2). Structured self-report questionnaires were administered at all three time points. PIU was assessed using the Young Diagnostic Questionnaire (YDQ). In addition, demographic (i.e., gender), social (i.e., parental involvement), psychological (i.e., emotional problems), and Internet use-related factors (i.e., online activities) were assessed as prospective predictors. The prevalence of PIU was 4.3% at T0, 2.7% at T1 and 3.1% at T2. However, only 3 students (0.58%) had persistent categorical PIU (YDQ score of ≥5) over the 2-year period. In univariate models, a variety of variables that have been previously identified in cross-sectional investigations predicted PIU at T2. However, multivariate regression demonstrated that only previous PIU symptoms and emotional problems were significant predictors of PIU 2years later (adjusted R (2) 0.23). The stability of categorical PIU in adolescents over 2years was lower than previously reported. However, current PIU symptoms were the best predictor of later PIU; emotional symptoms also predicted PIU over and above the influence of previous problematic Internet use. Both PIU symptoms and emotional problems may contribute to the vicious cycle that supports the perpetuation of PIU.

Post-operative physiotherapy in foreign medical interventions during humanitarian crises: a literature review

These all can ultimately affect academic performance of a student. Various studies indicate the effect of pathological internet use on academic performance as well as physical and mental health, but no study has found the prevalence of pathological internet use and its psychological consequences among undergraduate physiotherapy students. Purpose:This cross sectional study intends to estimate the prevalence of pathological internet use among undergraduate students of an Indian university. Secondary objective of this study is to find the correlation between pathological internet use and academic performance, depression and general health. Methods: A questionnaire set is distributed among undergraduate physiotherapy students enrolled in an Indian university (n= 175). Informed written consent was obtained from all the participants before the study. Out of total responses those who were not willing to participate have been excluded. So, the response rate of this study is 84.57% (n= 148). The survey instrument consistDemographic details and previously validated and reliableYoung’s InternetAddictionQuestionnaire, Beck’sDepression Inventory andGeneral Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) which are most commonly used to measure what it intends to. Results: The mean age of participants is 18.98± 1.24 years with high female representation (83%). Prevalence rate of Internet addiction is 34.5% (n= 51) with more than 99% (n= 147) are using internet. Mean time of internet use is 4.43± 0.78 hours. The Average Expense for internet use is 258 INR. Because of internet addiction, 15% (n= 22) have moderate depression and 29.72% (n= 44) have borderline clinical depression. 25%(n= 37) of students have found to have psychological distress because of internet usage. There is positive correlation between academic performance and their internet usage (r= 0.7458). Conclusion(s): Internet addiction is currently becoming a serious mental health problem among undergraduate physiotherapy college students. Internet addiction, as a new challenge in the health care system is needed to be prevented and cured considerably. The academic performance of students improves with the internet usage, which suggests increase usage of internet should be necessary for physiotherapy students. Implications: Results of this study are useful in policy and guideline formulation for the students for a positive use of internet. It will also help to resolve the physical as well as psycho-social consequences of internet addiction.

Prevalence of Pathological Internet Use in a Representative German Sample of Adolescents: Results of a Latent Profile Analysis

Background: Pathological internet use is of increasing significance in several industrial nations. Sampling and Methods: We surveyed a representative German quota sample of 1,723 adolescents (aged 14-17 years) and 1 caregiver each. We conducted a latent profile analysis to identify a high-risk group for pathological internet use. Results: Overall, 3.2% of the sample formed a profile group with pathological internet use. In contrast to other published studies, the results of the latent profile analysis were verified not only by self-assessments of the youth's but also by external ratings of the caregivers. In addition to the pathological internet use, the high-risk group showed lower levels of family functioning and life satisfaction as well as more problems in family interactions. Conclusions: The results showed a considerable prevalence of pathological internet use in adolescents and emphasized the need for preventive and therapeutic approaches.

Pathological Internet use among European adolescents: psychopathology and self-destructive behaviours.

Rising global rates of pathological Internet use (PIU) and related psychological impairments have gained considerable attention in recent years. In an effort to acquire evidence-based knowledge of this relationship, the main objective of this study was to investigate the association between PIU, psychopathology and self-destructive behaviours among school-based adolescents in eleven European countries. This cross-sectional study was implemented within the framework of the European Union project: Saving and Empowering Young Lives in Europe. A representative sample of 11,356 school-based adolescents (M/F: 4,856/6,500; mean age: 14.9) was included in the analyses. PIU was assessed using the Young’s Diagnostic Questionnaire. Psychopathology was measured using the Beck Depression Inventory-II, Zung Self-Rating Anxiety Scale and Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Self-destructive behaviours were evaluated by the Deliberate Self-Harm Inventory and Paykel Suicide Scale. Results showed that suicidal behaviours (suicidal ideation and suicide attempts), depression, anxiety, conduct problems and hyperactivity/inattention were significant and independent predictors of PIU. The correlation between PIU, conduct problems and hyperactivity/inattention was stronger among females, while the link between PIU and symptoms of depression, anxiety and peer relationship problems was stronger among males. The association between PIU, psychopathology and self-destructive behaviours was stronger in countries with a higher prevalence of PIU and suicide rates. These findings ascertain that psychopathology and suicidal behaviours are strongly related to PIU. This association is significantly influenced by gender and country suggesting socio-cultural influences. At the clinical and public health levels, targeting PIU among adolescents in the early stages could potentially lead to improvements of psychological well-being and a reduction of suicidal behaviours.Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s00787-014-0562-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Prevalence of Internet Addiction in a Sample of Southern Italian High School Students

The aim of the present study was to assess the prevalence of Internet Addiction (IA) in a sample of Italian high school students accounting for age, gender, place of residence, and kind of internet activity. The Internet Addiction Test (IAT) was administered to a sample of 1,035 high schools students (ages ranging from 13 to 22 years; 47.92 % girls) from three southern Italian cities. The prevalence of pathological Internet use in our high school students sample was 3.9 %, with males showing a higher likelihood of developing pathological Internet use. The most recurring Internet activities for excessive users were online games and online communication. No effect of age, place of residence, and region of residence was found. The results of this study reaffirm the importance of active involvement by experts dealing with addiction to implement programs for primary and secondary intervention among high school students.

Prevalence of pathological internet use among adolescents in Europe: demographic and social factors

To investigate the prevalence of pathological internet use (PIU) and maladaptive internet use (MIU) among adolescents in 11 European countries in relation to demographic, social factors and internet accessibility. Cross-sectional survey. The 7th Framework European Union (EU) funded project, Saving and Empowering Young Lives in Europe (SEYLE), is a randomized controlled trial (RCT) evaluating interventions for risk behaviours among adolescents in Austria, Estonia, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Romania, Slovenia and Spain, with Sweden serving as the coordinating centre. A total of 11 956 adolescents (female/male: 6731/5225; mean age: 14.9 ± 0.89) recruited from randomly selected schools within the 11 study sites. Internet users were classified by gender into three categories: adaptive, maladaptive and pathological, based on their score in the Young Diagnostic Questionnaire for Internet Addiction (YDQ). The overall prevalence of PIU was 4.4%; it was higher among males than females (5.2% versus 3.8%) and differed between countries (χ(2) = 309.98; d.f. = 20; P < 0.001). PIU correlated significantly with mean hours online and male gender. The highest-ranked online activities were watching videos, frequenting chatrooms and social networking; significantly higher rates of playing single-user games were found in males and social networking in females. Living in metropolitan areas was associated with PIU. Students not living with a biological parent, low parental involvement and parental unemployment showed the highest relative risks of both MIU and PIU. Across a range of countries in Europe, using the Young Diagnostic Questionnaire for Internet Addiction yields a prevalence of 'pathological internet use' of 4.4% among adolescents, but varies by country and gender; adolescents lacking emotional and psychological support are at highest risk.

P-598 - Prevalence of pathological internet use among adolescents in Europe: demographic and health-related risk factors

Aims To investigate the prevalence of pathological Internet use (PIU) among adolescents in eleven European countries in relation to demographic and health-related risk factors and Internet accessibility using homogenous methodology. Design Cross-sectional analysis. Setting The 7th Framework European Union funded project, Saving and Empowering Young Lives in Europe (SEYLE), is a Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) evaluating preventive interventions for risk-behaviors among adolescents in Austria, Estonia, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Romania, Slovenia and Spain with Sweden as the coordinating site. Participants 11,956 adolescents (F/M: 6731/5225; mean age: 14.9 ± 0.89) recruited from randomly selected schools within the eleven study sites. Measurements Internet users were classified by gender into three categories: adaptive, maladaptive and pathological, based on the Young Diagnostic Questionnaire for Internet Addiction (YDQ). Findings The overall prevalence of PIU was 4.4%. The rate was higher among males than females (5.2% vs. 3.8%). Students not living with a biological parent or relative had the highest risk for both maladaptive and pathological Internet use. Low-parental involvement and parental unemployment showed high relative risk for both maladaptive and pathological Internet use. PIU significantly correlated with the average number of hours spent online. No correlation was found between national levels of Internet accessibility and pathological Internet use. Conclusion Prevalence of PIU varied by gender. Youth in households without a biological parent and/or low level of parental involvement had the most significant health-related factors associated with PIU. National levels of Internet accessibility were not a risk factor for either maladaptive or pathological Internet use.

Internet use and misuse: a multivariate regression analysis of the predictive factors of internet use among Greek adolescents

The internet is an integral tool for information, communication, and entertainment among adolescents. As adolescents devote increasing amounts of time to utilizing the internet, the risk for adopting excessive and pathological internet use is inherent. The study objectives include assessing the characteristics and predictors of excessive internet use and evaluating the prevalence of pathological internet use among Greek adolescents. A cross-sectional study design was applied to this effect. The study population (n = 897) consisted of a random sample of adolescents residing in Athens, Greece. Self-completed questionnaires, pertaining to internet access characteristics and Young's Internet Addiction Scale (YIAS) score, were applied in order to investigate the study objectives. The multivariate regression analysis indicated that the most significant predictors of overall internet use included accessing the internet via one's own home portal and for the purpose of social interaction. Internet access via the school environment was a significant deterrent among low (1-3 h/week) internet users, while access via internet cafés was a significant predictor for high (11-20 h/week) internet users. Moreover, accessing the internet for the purposes of game playing was the most significant predictor for excessive (>20 h/week) internet use. The prevalence of borderline internet use among the study population was 12.8%, while 1.00% reported addictive internet use. Also, 10.4% of male excessive internet users reported addictive internet use (p < 0.0001). In conclusion, excessive internet use is predicted solely by the location of internet access (own home portal) and the scope of internet use (i.e., sites relating to socialization and game playing) and may lead to internet addiction, particularly among male adolescents.

Prevalence of Pathological Internet Use among University Students and Correlations with Self-Esteem, the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ), and Disinhibition

Over the last few years, there has been increased interest in the addictive potential of the Internet. The current study was an attempt to replicate common findings in the literature and provide more evidence for the existence of Internet addiction among students--a population considered to be especially vulnerable. A total of 371 British students responded to the questionnaire, which included the Pathological Internet Use (PIU) scale, the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), a self-esteem scale, and two measures of disinhibition. Results showed that 18.3% of the sample were considered to be pathological Internet users, whose excessive use of the Internet was causing academic, social, and interpersonal problems. Other results showed that pathological Internet users had lower self-esteem and were more socially disinhibited. However, there was no significant difference in GHQ scores. These results are discussed in relation to the methodological shortcomings of research in the area as a whole.