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Unraveling Internet Addiction: Clinical Perspectives, Implications, and Interventions

Unraveling Internet Addiction: Clinical Perspectives, Implications, and Interventions
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Author(s): Joselyn Barnhart (University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, USA), Leslie Reyes (University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, USA)and Cameron Lacy Ortega (University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, USA)
Copyright: 2026
Pages: 28
Source title: Assessing and Treating Behavioral Addictions
Source Author(s)/Editor(s): Rommel Johnson (University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, USA)and Reuben Mwangi (Central Michigan University, USA)
DOI: 10.4018/979-8-3373-0518-9.ch002

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Abstract

Internet addiction (IA) is a growing public health concern, particularly among adolescents and those with psychological vulnerabilities. As digital connectivity expands, excessive internet use is linked to social isolation, mental health issues, and cognitive impairment. This chapter explores the demographic, psychological, and environmental factors contributing to IA, emphasizing impulsivity, emotional distress, and social influences. It examines IA's neurobiological basis, drawing parallels with substance use disorders, focusing on dopamine dysregulation and reward processing. Cultural perspectives show how societal norms and technology access shape IA prevalence. Peer pressure, family dynamics, and socioeconomic disparities are analyzed as risk factors. Effective treatments are reviewed, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), family therapy, and exercise-based interventions. The chapter highlights relapse prevention, advocacy, and policy recommendations to promote responsible technology use and support affected individuals.

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