Characterizing the building blocks of Problematic Use of the Internet (PUI): The role of obsessional impulses and impulsivity traits among Italian young adults

Problematic Use of the Internet (PUI) is a considerable issue modern era, but its risk factors are still poorly understood. Impulsivity and obsessive-compulsive symptoms have been associated with PUI, this relationship debated. In article we focus on relationships PUI impulsive in cohort Italian young adults, order to identify possible vulnerability for PUI. A sample 772 individuals aged 18–30 (mean age 23.3 ± 3.3 years old; 38% males 62% females) was assessed via online survey using Addiction Test (IAT), Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI) Screen, Padua Inventory-Washington State University Revision (PI-WSUR) Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-11). Ninety-seven subjects (12.6% sample) reported IAT scores at participants higher levels impulsivity, burden co-occurrent psychiatric symptoms. logistic regression model, obsessional impulses harm (OR = 1.108, p < 0.001), attentional impulsivity 1.155, 0.001) depressive symptomatology 1.246, 0.012) had significant association Finally, severity has manic/psychotic impulsivity. Our findings confirmed role while also underling pathological behavior. We could hypothesize trigger obsessive engagement together as negative affective states. Further research needed respect more severe forms establishing tailored interventions.