Problematic Internet use and problematic alcohol use from the cognitive–behavioral model: A longitudinal study among adolescents
As the title of this article suggests, this study focuses on the relationship between problematic internet use and problematic alcohol consumption. These two phenomena can be linked through the cognitive behavioral model; this model basically says that what you think influences how you act or how you act influences what you think.
Problematic Internet Use (PIU) has been associated with other psychological problems such as depression and anxiety. This study is really a two way street according to the cognitive–behavioral model. PIU can influence how you act and how you think. For instance this study found that isolation resulting from internet over indulgence and lack of self-control can cause depression, because you are depressed you then see an increase in alcohol consumption. This is an example of the cognitive behavioral model where how you act influences how you think and vice versa.
PIU shows many of the same symptoms as an addiction, things like cravings, tolerance and withdrawal. This study found that the controlling factor in PIU is a lack of self- control. Only this can forecast the increase in negative consequences such as alcohol use and a greater preference for social interactions over the internet. As a youth experiencing the effects of PIU and comes to grips with the negative consequences, they turn to alcohol to avoid the distress arising from PIU.
This study was conducted in 12 schools (49 classrooms) in Bizkaia, Spain. The study included 801 young adults with a mean age of 14.92 years. A survey was conducted asking about internet use and alcohol use. Six months later the survey was given again to the same children to gauge how their habits had changed and how this change had affected their lives.
The treatment of PIU is of vital importance for the upcoming generation. Without treatment this lack of self-control can turn into something that most adults would never associate with internet usage that being alcohol consumption. You can help to prevent PIU by planning non-internet related activities or by setting limits for internet usage. You can also see a counselor who can help you use different techniques to treat PIU and hopefully prevent excessive alcohol use.
Gámez-Guadix, M., Calvete, E., Orue I., Las Hayas C. (2014). Problematic Internet use and problematic alcohol use from the cognitive-behavioral model: A longitudinal study among adolescents. Addictive Behaviors, doi: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2014.09.009
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