Abstract
Globally, excessive internet use is identified as a challenge. This study aimed to compare ‘Problematic Internet Use’ (PIU) using DSM-5 based criterion of Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) and its ‘content usage’ among adolescents, and adults amid the current pandemic. We also explored the role of age, gender, domains of internet behavior and content usage as predictors of PIU. This was a cross-sectional study with a total sample of 1027 participants [456 adolescents; 347 young adults and 224 middle age-adults]. Chi-square was conducted to study differences between the groups. Further, Pearson (point biserial) correlation and hierarchical regression were carried out. Results showed that 31.58% (M = 3.51, S.D. = 2.38) of total adolescents, 25.08% of total young adults (M = 2.89, S.D. = 2.22) and 17% middle-aged adults (M = 2.32, S.D. = 2.18) fulfilled the criterion (≥ 5 symptoms) based on DSM 5. Compared to young adults, more adolescents reported ‘Preoccupation’, ‘Persistence’ and ‘Problems’. However, more young adults reported ‘Tolerance’, ‘Escape’ and ‘Conflict’ in comparison to the middle-age adults. In terms of gender, males scored higher than females on ‘Withdrawal’ and ‘Conflict’. Whereas, females scored higher than males on ‘Escape’. The regression model showed age, social media, online entertainment, and gaming as significant predictors of PIU. Additionally, there were significant differences in symptoms of PIU, and content of internet use across age brackets. This study provides further clarity on the conceptualization of PIU, and guides meaningful way forward to prevent and manage PIU in the vulnerable populations.
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The data supporting the findings of study can be made available by the corresponding author upon reasonable request.
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Acknowledgements
Authors would like acknowledge support of Dr. P.K. Dalal, Dr. Vivek Agarwal, Dr Anil Nishchal, Dr. Bandna Gupta, Dr. Adarsh Tripathi, Dr. Amit Arya, Dr Pooja Mahour, and Dr. Sujit Kar, Department of Psychiatry, KGMU, Lucknow. We acknowledge help extended by the school and college authorities. Also, we are grateful to all the participants for their active participation.
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Singh, S., Datta, M. & Batra, S. Internet Use Dilemma of ‘Overinvolved Behavior’ or a ‘Disorder’ Using DSM-5- Based Domains: A Comparative Study of Adolescents and Adults in India. Psychol Stud 68, 388–403 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12646-023-00731-9
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12646-023-00731-9