Quick Take: Efficacy of short-term treatment of internet and computer game addiction

Internet gaming disorder, listed in the DSM-5, is characterized by preoccupation, withdrawal, tolerance and continued use despite negative consequences. The behavior that characterizes Internet addiction (IA) causes significant impairment in the various spheres of an individual’s life, including social, education, personal, occupational or other relevant areas of functioning. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has been proposed in the treatment of IA. In this randomized clinical trial, 143 men, aged 17-52 years, meeting diagnostic criteria for IA, were randomized to participate in a manualized CBT program combining group and individual interventions, or a wait-list control, to assess whether this intervention is effective in treating individuals with internet and computer game addiction. Based on a multivariate analysis, researchers found that the odds of remission were greater in the intervention group (OR 10.10, 95% CI 3.69 to 27.65). This study therefore shows that short-term CBT may be an effective treatment modality in the management of IA. However, further studies assessing the long-term efficacy of these types of interventions are needed.

Click to read the study in JAMA Psychiatry

Image: PD

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