Stop internet addiction! Scientists are looking for subjects for a study

Stop internet addiction! Scientists are looking for subjects for a study

Research into Internet use disorders is advancing, as the latest developments from the Affective and Cognitive Mechanisms of Specific Internet-Use Disorders (ACSID) research group show. This group, founded in 2020 and funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG), analyzes the psychological and neurobiological processes behind internet addictions. Led by Prof. Dr. Matthias Brand from the University of Duisburg-Essen, the project includes experts from eight universities, including Prof. Dr. Steins-Löber from the University of Bamberg. A total of ten new sub-projects are looking for subjects who will take part in experimental and neuropsychological tasks, fill out questionnaires and complete video interviews.

Participants aged 18 and over who have a good knowledge of German can take part either at project locations or digitally and receive an allowance of 12 euros per hour. In particular, females who frequently play computer games or use pornography are sought. A special sub-study aims to investigate gender differences in these usage disorders.

New research approaches and diagnoses

In addition, the discussion about internet addiction, which has become more important with the introduction of ICD-11 on January 1, 2022, highlights different perspectives. Is internet addiction a disease in its own right or could it be viewed as a side effect of other illnesses such as depression? The ICD-11 defines novel diagnoses such as “gaming disorder” (computer gaming disorder, ICD-11 code 6C51) and “hazardous gaming” (risky computer gaming, ICD-11 code QE22), which establish specific criteria for the diagnosis.

It also introduces “compulsive sexual behavior” (ICD-11 code 6C72), which includes excessive porn consumption. These new diagnoses not only provide a better basis for treating those affected, but also for psychologists and psychotherapists who previously had to work with inaccurate diagnoses.

Therapeutic approaches and challenges

The WHO has recognized Internet use disorders as a disease in its own right, which could improve the care landscape. Although there are already treatment manuals for children, adolescents and adults, the comprehensive coverage still leaves something to be desired. Behavioral therapy approaches that include a diagnostic phase and individual goal setting have proven to be effective.

In addition, the need for empirically proven findings for therapeutic approaches that go beyond classic behavioral therapies is addressed. The first steps towards depth psychological and psychoanalytic approaches have already been formulated. A randomized controlled study showed that the treatment group had a tenfold higher probability of remission of addiction symptoms, which underlines the potential of structured therapy programs.

The development of gender-sensitive treatment strategies is an important future task because the causes of Internet use disorders can often differ. Professional associations welcome the progress achieved by introducing new diagnoses in ICD-11 as a significant step towards supporting those affected and their families.

In summary, active research and newly introduced diagnostics can have a significant impact on the understanding and treatment of Internet use disorders. The research group's ongoing studies and the development of therapeutic approaches are central elements for the future of support services in this area uni-bamberg.de highlights.

Additional information about the classified disorders can be found on webcare.plus and psylife.de be read.