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Search Results (434)

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Keywords = Internet addiction

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29 pages, 646 KiB  
Systematic Review
Connected by Boredom: A Systematic Review of the Role of Trait Boredom in Problematic Technology Use
by Ginevra Tagliaferri, Manuel Martí-Vilar, Francesca Valeria Frisari, Alessandro Quaglieri, Emanuela Mari, Jessica Burrai, Anna Maria Giannini and Clarissa Cricenti
Brain Sci. 2025, 15(8), 794; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15080794 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 623
Abstract
Background/Objectives: In an increasingly pervasive digital environment, trait boredom has been identified as a key psychological factor in the onset and maintenance of problematic digital technology use. This systematic review aims to investigate the role of trait boredom in digital behavioral addictions, including [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: In an increasingly pervasive digital environment, trait boredom has been identified as a key psychological factor in the onset and maintenance of problematic digital technology use. This systematic review aims to investigate the role of trait boredom in digital behavioral addictions, including problematic smartphone use, Internet and social media overuse, and gaming addiction, through theoretical models such as the I-PACE model and the Compensatory Internet Use Theory (CIUT). Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted across multiple scientific databases (PsycINFO, Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus), yielding a total of 4603 records. Following the PRISMA guidelines after duplicate removal and screening based on title and abstract, 152 articles were assessed for full-text eligibility, and 28 studies met the predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria and were included in the final review. Results: Findings reveal that trait boredom functions as both a direct and indirect factor in problematic technology use. It serves as a mediator and moderator in the relationship between psychological vulnerabilities (e.g., depression, alexithymia, vulnerable narcissism) and dysfunctional digital behaviors. Furthermore, as an independent variable, it has an influence on technological variables through Fear of Missing Out (FoMO), loneliness, low self-regulation, and dysfunctional metacognitions, while protective factors such as mindfulness and attentional control mitigate its impact. Conclusions: Boredom represents a central psychological lever for understanding behavioral addictions in the digital age and should be considered a key target in preventive and therapeutic interventions focused on enhancing self-regulation and meaningful engagement with free time. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychiatry and Addiction: A Multi-Faceted Issue)
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16 pages, 261 KiB  
Article
A Six-Year Longitudinal Study of Psychological Distress, Depression, Anxiety, and Internet Addiction Among Students at One Medical Faculty
by Meltem Akdemir, Yonca Sonmez, Yesim Yigiter Şenol, Erol Gurpinar and Mehmet Rifki Aktekin
Healthcare 2025, 13(14), 1750; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13141750 - 19 Jul 2025
Viewed by 272
Abstract
Background: Medical education is considered one of the most academically and emotionally demanding training programs. Throughout their education, medical students are exposed to various factors that can lead to psychological distress, depression, and anxiety. The aim of this longitudinal study was to [...] Read more.
Background: Medical education is considered one of the most academically and emotionally demanding training programs. Throughout their education, medical students are exposed to various factors that can lead to psychological distress, depression, and anxiety. The aim of this longitudinal study was to examine the changes in psychological distress, depression, anxiety levels and internet addiction among medical students throughout their six-year education and to identify the contributing factors. Methods: The study cohort consisted of 282 students who enrolled in the medical faculty in the 2017–2018 academic year. A questionnaire including sociodemographic characteristics, the General Health Questionnaire-12 (GHQ-12), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), State–Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and Young Internet Addiction Test (IAT) was administered to the students during the first week of their education. The same questionnaire was readministered at the end of the third and sixth years. Friedman’s variance analysis was used to compare measurement data across the three time points, while Cochran’s Q Test was employed for categorical variables. Results: The median scores of the GHQ-12, BDI, S-Anxiety, and IAT significantly increased from the first to the sixth year (p < 0.05). The prevalence of depressive symptoms, S-Anxiety, and risky internet use significantly increased from the first to the final year, particularly between the third and sixth years. According to logistic regression analysis based on sixth-year data, students whose fathers were university graduates, who had been diagnosed with COVID-19, and who were dissatisfied with their social lives were found to be at increased risk for psychological distress and depression. Students with high parental expectations were found to be at risk of depression and S-anxiety. Those dissatisfied with their occupational choice were at risk for both psychological distress and S-anxiety. Conclusions: It was found that the mental health of medical students deteriorated during their education, especially during the clinical years. Given that these students will be responsible for protecting and improving public health in the future, it is essential to prioritize their own mental well-being. Interventions aimed at preserving the mental health of medical students should be planned. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Preventive Medicine)
25 pages, 697 KiB  
Article
Psychopathological Correlates of Dysfunctional Smartphone and Social Media Use: The Role of Personality Disorders in Technological Addiction and Digital Life Balance
by Mirko Duradoni, Giulia Colombini, Camilla Barucci, Veronica Zagaglia and Andrea Guazzini
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2025, 15(7), 136; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe15070136 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 431
Abstract
Current technological development has made the Internet and new technologies increasingly present in people’s lives, expanding their opportunities but also potentially posing risks for dysfunctional use. This study aims to identify psychopathological factors associated with dysfunctional ICT use, extending the evidence beyond the [...] Read more.
Current technological development has made the Internet and new technologies increasingly present in people’s lives, expanding their opportunities but also potentially posing risks for dysfunctional use. This study aims to identify psychopathological factors associated with dysfunctional ICT use, extending the evidence beyond the well-established relationships with mood disorders to include personality disorders (i.e., cluster C in particular). A total of 711 participants (75.70% female; Mage = 28.33 years, SD = 12.30) took part in the data collection. Firstly, the results showed positive correlations between higher levels of addictive patterns for the Internet, social networks, smartphones and applications, and video games and higher levels of borderline symptoms as assessed by the Borderline Symptom List 23—Short Version. Moreover, scores reflecting high addictive patterns also positively correlated with general narcissistic traits as indicated by the total score of the Narcissistic Personality Inventory 13—Short Version and those specifically described by its Entitlement/Exploitativeness dimension, as well as with higher levels of almost all the personality traits assessed by the Personality Inventory for DSM 5—Brief Form (i.e., negative affectivity, detachment, disinhibition, and psychoticism). These findings broaden the still scarce body of evidence on the relationship between personality disorders and dysfunctional ICT use, which, however, needs to be further explored. Full article
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17 pages, 434 KiB  
Article
A Randomized Controlled Trial to Evaluate the Effectiveness of a Theory of Planned Behavior-Based Educational Intervention in Reducing Internet Addiction Among Adolescent Girls in Southern Iran
by Fatemeh Shirdel, Narges Mobasheri, Mohammad Hossein Kaveh, Jafar Hassanzadeh and Leila Ghahremani
Adolescents 2025, 5(3), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/adolescents5030033 - 11 Jul 2025
Viewed by 369
Abstract
Internet addiction among adolescents has emerged as a significant global health issue, contributing to social isolation, academic difficulties, and emotional disorders, with excessive use of social networks further intensifying these challenges. This study evaluated the effectiveness of an educational intervention grounded in the [...] Read more.
Internet addiction among adolescents has emerged as a significant global health issue, contributing to social isolation, academic difficulties, and emotional disorders, with excessive use of social networks further intensifying these challenges. This study evaluated the effectiveness of an educational intervention grounded in the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) in reducing Internet addiction and enhancing academic performance among adolescent girls in southern Iran. A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 370 female students aged 15–16 years, selected through two-stage cluster random sampling and divided equally into intervention and control groups. The intervention group participated in a five-week TPB-based program, incorporating lectures, group discussions, and parent–teacher meetings, while the control group received unrelated health education. Data were collected using the Yang Internet Addiction Test (IAT), a TPB-based questionnaire, and academic performance scores (grade point average, GPA) before and after the intervention. A repeated measures ANOVA revealed significant improvements in attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, and intentions to reduce Internet use (p < 0.001). Internet addiction scores significantly declined, and GPA improved in the intervention group compared to the control group (p < 0.001, Cohen’s d = 0.950). The findings support TPB-based interventions as effective tools for reducing Internet addiction and improving academic outcomes among adolescents. This study was registered with the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT20131014015015N18). Full article
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16 pages, 283 KiB  
Review
The Brain in the Age of Smartphones and the Internet: The Possible Protective Role of Sport
by Laura Coco, Jonida Balla, Leonardo Noto, Valentina Perciavalle, Andrea Buscemi, Donatella Di Corrado and Marinella Coco
Brain Sci. 2025, 15(7), 733; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15070733 - 9 Jul 2025
Viewed by 601
Abstract
Background: The widespread use of smartphones and the internet has transformed communication, but excessive use has raised concerns about smartphone and internet addiction, which can lead to psychological, physical, and social issues. The objective of this literature review is to explore the relationship [...] Read more.
Background: The widespread use of smartphones and the internet has transformed communication, but excessive use has raised concerns about smartphone and internet addiction, which can lead to psychological, physical, and social issues. The objective of this literature review is to explore the relationship between smartphone and internet addiction and physical activity, particularly focusing on whether physical exercise, especially sports, can serve as a protective factor against addiction. The review aims to examine how physical activity can reduce the negative impacts of addiction and improve overall mental health. Methods: This review synthesizes empirical research on smartphone and internet addiction and its connection to physical activity. It examines studies exploring how addiction leads to physical inactivity and how participation in physical activities, especially sports, can counteract this effect. The review also evaluates research on psychological mechanisms, such as self-esteem, self-control, and emotional resilience, that mediate the relationship between physical activity and addiction. Additionally, it discusses how sociodemographic and contextual factors influence this relationship. Conclusions: The findings consistently show an inverse relationship between smartphone and internet use and physical activity, with physical activity acting as a protective factor against addiction. Sports and other physical activities have been linked to reduced addictive behaviors, enhanced psychological well-being, and improved emotional resilience. Promoting physical activity, particularly sports, along with psychological interventions, appears to be an effective strategy for preventing and treating smartphone and internet addiction. Future research should focus on developing tailored interventions and studying diverse populations to optimize addiction prevention. Full article
15 pages, 292 KiB  
Article
Problematic Use of the Internet and Cybervictimization: An Empirical Study with Spanish Adolescents
by Verónica Marcos, Francisca Fariña, Manuel Isorna, Santiago López-Roel and Katia Rolán
Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 810; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15060810 - 13 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1078
Abstract
Background: Adolescence is a critical stage for the development of behaviours related to problematic Internet and social media use, as well as for the experience of cybervictimisation. The literature highlights the need to examine these types of adolescent behaviours. Method: A field study [...] Read more.
Background: Adolescence is a critical stage for the development of behaviours related to problematic Internet and social media use, as well as for the experience of cybervictimisation. The literature highlights the need to examine these types of adolescent behaviours. Method: A field study was designed to analyse the prevalence of problematic Internet and social media use, as well as cybervictimisation, sexting, and grooming. In total, 666 Spanish adolescents participated, 55.4% females and 44.6% males, with an age range between 14 and 18 years (M = 15.27, SD = 1.01). Results: The results showed that 15.8% of the participants were diagnosed as at risk for Internet and social media addiction; 27.2% of the participants were diagnosed as cyberbullying victims; 14.7% of the sample engaged in sexting behaviours, and 34.7% engaged in grooming behaviours. Additionally, significant gender differences were found in cybervictimisation behaviours, with females scoring higher. Conclusions: The findings are discussed in relation to the need to develop preventive and educational strategies that promote the safe and responsible use of the digital context. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychoeducation and Early Intervention)
14 pages, 260 KiB  
Article
The Dark Side of Leisure Time: Analysis of the Predictive Effects Between Boredom, Internet Usage Habits, and Gambling Behaviors
by Esra Emir, Elif Akça, Adela Badau and Dana Badau
Brain Sci. 2025, 15(6), 598; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15060598 - 3 Jun 2025
Viewed by 684
Abstract
Background/Objectives: This study aimed to identify the relationships between individuals’ perceptions of leisure boredom, internet usage habits, and gambling motivations, focusing on analyzing the predictive effects by age category in adults. Methods: The study employs quantitative research methods, adopting a relational survey [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: This study aimed to identify the relationships between individuals’ perceptions of leisure boredom, internet usage habits, and gambling motivations, focusing on analyzing the predictive effects by age category in adults. Methods: The study employs quantitative research methods, adopting a relational survey model. The sample group comprises 310 adult (94 female and 214 male) individuals aged 18 and over. Data were collected using the Leisure Boredom Scale (LBS), targeting two subscales: negative (Boredom) and positive (Satisfaction) attitudes toward leisure time, the Leisure Internet Use Scale (LIUS) targeting four forms of leisure, and the Gambling Motivation Scale (GMS) with the following subscales: socialization, entertainment/excitement, escapism, and money-making. In the analysis conducted with SPSS 25.0, independent samples t-test, ANOVA, correlation, and regression analyses were applied. Results: The findings indicate that leisure boredom significantly predicts internet usage and gambling motivations. Notably, individuals who spend their leisure time on passive activities were found to have higher rates of internet usage, habits, digital addiction, and gambling behavior. The positive relationship between internet usage habits, digital addictions, and risky behaviors such as gambling becomes particularly pronounced among young adults. Conclusions: Leisure time management is critical for individuals’ psychological well-being. Cognitive awareness programs, digital literacy education, and promoting participation in healthy leisure activities are recommended as key strategies to prevent risky behaviors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Perils of Social Media Addiction)
17 pages, 283 KiB  
Article
Problematic Use of Video Games, Social Media, and Alcohol: Exploring Reciprocal Relations with the Big Five Personality Traits in a Longitudinal Design
by Lutz Wartberg, Steffen Zitzmann, Silke Diestelkamp, Katrin Potzel, Sophia Berber and Rudolf Kammerl
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2025, 15(5), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe15050077 - 12 May 2025
Viewed by 664
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The problematic use of video games (PG), social media (PSMU), and alcohol (PAU) is widespread from adolescence onwards. According to theoretical models, personality traits are relevant for these problematic behavioral patterns; however, only very few longitudinal studies are available. The aim of [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The problematic use of video games (PG), social media (PSMU), and alcohol (PAU) is widespread from adolescence onwards. According to theoretical models, personality traits are relevant for these problematic behavioral patterns; however, only very few longitudinal studies are available. The aim of this longitudinal study was to investigate for the first time whether Big Five personality dimensions (BFPD) are predictors for the development of PG, PSMU, or PAU, or conversely, whether these behavioral patterns are predictive of the BFPD. Methods: Surveys were conducted over three measurement time points (t1 to t3) using standardized instruments on PG, PSMU, PAU, and BFPD. A total of 492 young people (average age: 16.83 years, 44.1% female and 55.9% male) were investigated at t1, 475 persons (mean age: 17.93 years, 44.8% female, 55.2% male) at t2, and 443 cases (average age: 20.11 years, 45.1% female, 54.9% male) at t3. We calculated cross-lagged panel analyses over three measurement points (structural equation modeling). Results: Of the BFPD, lower Conscientiousness and lower Extraversion were predictors of PG, higher Negative Emotionality (Neuroticism) predicted PSMU, and lower Agreeableness was a predictor of PAU. Only PAU was a predictor of a Big Five dimension (lower Agreeableness). Conclusions: The findings were not consistent across the measurement points (t1 to t2 vs. t2 to t3) with one exception in an explorative analysis: problematic gaming was a predictor for both problematic social media use and problematic alcohol use in youth (t1 to t2 and t2 to t3). The influence of lower Conscientiousness was confirmed for PG and initial longitudinal results for PSMU and PAU were observed. These novel findings could be considered when developing or revising preventive measures. Full article
18 pages, 3771 KiB  
Article
Impact of Family Environment in Rural China on Loneliness, Depression, and Internet Addiction Among Children and Adolescents
by Yixiang Zhou, Meng Zheng, Yujie He, Jianghui Zhang, Tingting Guo, Qing Wang and Wen Chen
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2025, 15(5), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe15050068 - 1 May 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 701
Abstract
This study investigates the impact of family environments on the psychological well-being of children and adolescents in rural China, focusing on loneliness, depression, and internet addiction. Using a cross-sectional design, data were collected from 652 families in rural Hunan province to examine the [...] Read more.
This study investigates the impact of family environments on the psychological well-being of children and adolescents in rural China, focusing on loneliness, depression, and internet addiction. Using a cross-sectional design, data were collected from 652 families in rural Hunan province to examine the role of family communication, caregiver psychological states, and parenting styles. Structural equation modeling revealed that family economic conditions influenced children’s mental health through primary caregivers’ emotional well-being, hostile parenting styles, and family communication. Notably, hostile parenting and poor family communication were the strongest mediators across all three psychological outcomes, consistently exhibiting significant associations with loneliness, depression, and internet addiction. The findings highlight the crucial role of parenting styles and poor family communication in shaping children’s psychological health, emphasizing the need for interventions that enhance family communication and promote supportive parenting. Addressing caregiver emotional well-being and adjusting parental expectations may serve as effective strategies for improving mental health outcomes among rural youth. Full article
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17 pages, 493 KiB  
Article
Investigating the Moderating Effect of Language Attitude in the Interplay Among Social Media Addiction, Social Pain and Internet Trolling in College Students
by Qingshu Xu
Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 586; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15050586 - 27 Apr 2025
Viewed by 863
Abstract
This study investigates the moderating effect of language attitude on the relationships among social media addiction, social pain, and internet trolling among college students. A sample of 891 students from various colleges and universities completed validated measures assessing their levels of social media [...] Read more.
This study investigates the moderating effect of language attitude on the relationships among social media addiction, social pain, and internet trolling among college students. A sample of 891 students from various colleges and universities completed validated measures assessing their levels of social media addiction, social pain, internet trolling, and language attitude. Using a latent variable approach within a multigroup structural equation modeling (SEM) framework, participants were divided into three groups (high, medium, and low language attitude) based on their language attitude scores. The SEM analysis revealed distinct patterns across groups. In the high language attitude group, both social media addiction and social pain significantly predicted internet trolling, with standardized regression coefficients of 0.564 and 0.728, respectively. In the medium language attitude group, the predictive effects remained significant; however, the magnitude of the coefficients decreased markedly (0.264 for social media addiction and 0.562 for social pain). In contrast, in the low language attitude group, neither social media addiction nor social pain emerged as significant predictors of internet trolling. Interestingly, the covariance between social media addiction and social pain remained consistent across the three groups, suggesting a stable interrelationship irrespective of language attitude level. These findings imply that language attitude plays a crucial moderating role in the interplay among social media addiction, social pain, and internet trolling. Specifically, higher levels of language attitude appear to amplify the effects of social media addiction and social pain on internet trolling behavior, while lower levels attenuate these associations. The results underscore the importance of considering individual differences in language attitudes when developing intervention strategies aimed at mitigating problematic online behaviors among college students. Full article
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19 pages, 1880 KiB  
Article
Assessing the Spectrum of Internet Use in a Healthy Sample: Altered Psychological States and Intact Brain Responses to an Equiprobable Go/NoGo Task
by Dovile Simkute, Povilas Tarailis, Evaldas Pipinis and Inga Griskova-Bulanova
Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 579; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15050579 - 25 Apr 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 636
Abstract
Problematic internet use (PIU) is linked to psychological distress and cognitive alterations, yet its early pre-clinical effects remain unclear. This study explored the psychological, behavioral, and neurophysiological correlates of PIU in a healthy, non-clinical population, focusing on response inhibition and execution within internet [...] Read more.
Problematic internet use (PIU) is linked to psychological distress and cognitive alterations, yet its early pre-clinical effects remain unclear. This study explored the psychological, behavioral, and neurophysiological correlates of PIU in a healthy, non-clinical population, focusing on response inhibition and execution within internet use patterns. A total of 133 participants (74 females, aged 18–35) were assessed using PIUQ-9 and DPIU questionnaires, along with measures of anxiety, depression, and obsessive–compulsive symptoms. An auditory equiprobable Go/NoGo task was used and event-related potentials (ERPs; N1/N2/P2/P3) were analyzed in relation to PIU severity and different online activities engagement. Additionally, behavioral, psychological, and neurophysiological profiles of individuals with high and low PIU levels were compared. PIU severity correlated with anxiety, depression, and obsessive–compulsive symptoms, while Go/NoGo task accuracy was unaffected. N1 amplitudes negatively correlated with PIU severity and gaming engagement, suggesting altered early sensory processing. NoGo-P3 latency positively correlated with information search engagement, indicating delayed inhibitory processing in frequent online searchers. High and low PIU groups differed in psychological measures but not in ERP or behavioral measures. Our findings confirm psychological distress in PIU alongside subtle neurophysiological alterations, suggesting that ERP measures in the equiprobable Go/NoGo task may not be highly sensitive PIU risk biomarkers in non-clinical populations. Full article
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22 pages, 1002 KiB  
Article
Psychological Well-Being, Substance Use, and Internet Consumption Among Students and Teaching Staff of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine: Risk and Protective Factors Associated with Well-Being and Dissatisfaction
by Irina Hernández-Trujillo, Elisa Hernández-Álvarez, Jaime Rojas-Hernández, Lucas F. Borkel, Tobias Fernández-Borkel, Domingo J. Quintana-Hernández and Luis Alberto Henríquez-Hernández
Healthcare 2025, 13(8), 918; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13080918 - 16 Apr 2025
Viewed by 662
Abstract
Background: Veterinary students experience high levels of mental health issues. Objectives: To analyze substance use, internet consumption, and mental health factors among students and academic staff of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, identifying [...] Read more.
Background: Veterinary students experience high levels of mental health issues. Objectives: To analyze substance use, internet consumption, and mental health factors among students and academic staff of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, identifying factors associated with well-being and dissatisfaction. Methods: A total of 226 respondents participated, including 177 students (78.3%) and 49 staff members (21.7%). Data were collected between 30 October 2024 and 14 January 2025 using an adapted EDADES-based survey assessing substance use (alcohol, tobacco, electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDSs), anxiolytics, and illicit drugs), internet habits, and psychological well-being among participants. Binary logistic regression was applied to identify factors associated with dissatisfaction. Results: Students exhibited higher binge drinking rates, greater ENDS consumption, and more problematic internet use than staff. Significant gender differences were observed, with females reporting greater emotional distress and a higher need for psychological support. Water pipe use (OR = 2.79, 95% CI = 1.45–5.38), anxiolytic consumption (OR = 2.31, 95% CI = 1.08–4.92), and excessive internet use (OR = 4.83, 95% CI = 1.66–14.1) were associated with lower overall satisfaction. Age was inversely associated with dissatisfaction (OR = 0.96, 95% CI = 0.94–0.98), and females were significantly more likely to report dissatisfaction (OR = 2.79, 95% CI = 1.45–5.38). Conclusions: Veterinary students exhibited higher psychological distress than teaching staff. Implementing targeted interventions to address substance use and internet habits is needed in order to enhance psychological well-being. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health and Well-Being in Veterinary Medicine)
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15 pages, 253 KiB  
Article
Problematic Internet Use and Its Relationship with Cyberbullying, Anxiety, and Executive Functions in Adolescence
by Marta Real-Fernández, Ignasi Navarro-Soria, Megan Rosales-Gómez and Beatriz Delgado
Children 2025, 12(4), 503; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12040503 - 14 Apr 2025
Viewed by 922
Abstract
Introduction/objectives: Brain development changes during adolescence are directly linked to various cognitive and behavioral challenges characteristic of this stage. The main objective of this study is to investigate the risks associated with Internet use and its relationship with Executive Functions (EFs) and anxiety [...] Read more.
Introduction/objectives: Brain development changes during adolescence are directly linked to various cognitive and behavioral challenges characteristic of this stage. The main objective of this study is to investigate the risks associated with Internet use and its relationship with Executive Functions (EFs) and anxiety in a representative sample of Spanish secondary school students. Methods: The sample consisted of 1164 participants (48% males) aged 12 to 17 years (M age = 14.86; SD = 1.41) from five selected academic centers. Executive Functions were assessed using the Adolescent and Adult Executive Functioning Questionnaire (ADEXI), anxiety was measured with the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21), and Problematic Internet Use (PIU) was evaluated with the Internet Addiction Test (IAT). Results: Significant positive correlations were found between the PIU, EF, anxiety, and cyberbullying variables. Predictive models were developed to explain the different variables. Conclusions: The results emphasize the need to increase awareness of these issues and to develop effective intervention strategies. Programs that promote responsible Internet use, along with classroom activities addressing anxiety and Executive Functions, could provide clear benefits. Full article
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17 pages, 621 KiB  
Article
Self-Compassion and Smartphone Addiction Tendency Among College Students: The Chain-Mediating Effect of Self-Concept Clarity and Experiential Avoidance
by Yin Qiu, Shaoying Gong, Yang Yang, Jing Wang and Liping Tan
Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(4), 512; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15040512 - 11 Apr 2025
Viewed by 1348
Abstract
Smartphone addiction has emerged as a pressing public health issue in recent years, which negatively impacts university students’ academic performance, physical and mental health, and social functioning. Therefore, it is crucial to explore the significant factors related to smartphone addiction. While previous research [...] Read more.
Smartphone addiction has emerged as a pressing public health issue in recent years, which negatively impacts university students’ academic performance, physical and mental health, and social functioning. Therefore, it is crucial to explore the significant factors related to smartphone addiction. While previous research has suggested a potential link between self-compassion and problematic internet or smartphone use, studies specifically examining the relationship between self-compassion and smartphone addiction tendency remain limited. From a positive psychology perspective, this study aims to explore the relationship between self-compassion and smartphone addiction tendency, as well as its internal mechanism. A total of 641 Chinese college students were recruited to complete online questionnaires assessing their self-compassion, self-concept clarity, experiential avoidance, and smartphone addiction tendency. The results show that self-compassion not only directly and negatively predicts smartphone addiction tendency, but also indirectly predicts it through the independent mediating effects of self-concept clarity and experiential avoidance. Additionally, there is a chain-mediating effect of self-concept clarity and experiential avoidance. This study provides a new perspective for the prevention and intervention of smartphone addiction tendency among college students. Full article
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8 pages, 165 KiB  
Editorial
Unraveling the Complexity of Internet Addiction: A Multi-Faceted Perspective from Five Key Studies
by Silvia Cimino and Luca Cerniglia
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(7), 2534; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14072534 - 7 Apr 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 790
Abstract
Internet addiction (IA) is one of the global concerns of our time, and research continues on understanding its psychological, neurobiological, and behavioral bases [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mental Health)
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