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Abstract:
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There is a variety of research discussing the idea of the Internet being addicting (Beard and Wolf, 2001; Brenner, 1997; Blascyznski, 2006; Chou, Condron, and Belland, 2005; Griffiths, 1998; and Young, 1996) however, there is little on additional issues such as co-occurring disorders, psychosocial factors and treatment methods. This study explores co-occurring mental illnesses, diagnostic criteria, treatment methods, and psychosocial factors that are commonly associated with excessive Internet use. This researcher sent an online survey in which 37 clinicians responded and reported on these factors based on their clients who could be diagnosed with Internet addiction. Clinicians reported that the most common co-occurring disorder is ADD or ADHD (62.1%). The most favored treatment method included cognitive behavior therapy (93.3%). The most common psychosocial stressor reported was low self-esteem (80.6%). The reason most often for Internet use was for a sense of belonging (80.7%). Clinicians also reported a variety of other factors related to excessive Internet use based on their caseloads, which is thoroughly discussed. Limitations included the small sample size because actual Internet users were not surveyed. |
