Problematic usage of the internet: Converging and diverging terminologies and constructs
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Systematic Review
Abstract: Problematic usage of the internet (PUI) is an increasing global concern, leading to significant negative impacts in various levels. PUI is an umbrella term comprised of subcategories, including online gaming disorder, online gambling disorder, online buying-shopping disorder, online compulsive sexual behavior disorder, problematic usage of social media, cyberchondria, cyberbullying, and digital hoarding. With respect to the diversity of these categories, a factor that further impedes the field of PUI is not recognizing these subcategories under the PUI. To estimate the state of the field, we conducted a systematic review on a sample time frame, 2022-2023, and we found that among 2,497 relevant papers, only 13% of the studies on PUI subcategories used PUI as an umbrella term. Establishing PUI as an overarching terminology, as we do with substance use disorder (SUD) as a term while respecting the diversities within its subcategories, would synergize research efforts, facilitate comparisons, and inform treatment strategies. As technology continues to evolve, terminological refinement is critical to maintaining relevance and accessibility for researchers and the broader community.
Source: Journal of Behavioral Addictions
Institutions: Tehran University of Medical Sciences, University of St Andrews, Eötvös Loránd University, Flinders University, University of Gibraltar, University of Hertfordshire, University of Cambridge, Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Université de Montréal, University of Lausanne, Yale University, Connecticut Mental Health Center, South African Medical Research Council, University of Cape Town, University of Minnesota, Laureate Institute for Brain Research
Language: English
Subfield: Sociology and Political Science
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $916
OpenAlex ID: W4415380439