Generalized problematic internet use: An impulsive-compulsive spectrum disorder?

Introduction Generalized problematic internet use/GPIU has recently been associated with the impulsive-compulsive spectrum/ICS, but its mapping onto these behaviour dimensions is relatively unexplored. Objectives To compare patterns of use and scores BIG-5 personality traits, perfectionism psychological distress between groups low/high levels GPIU. Methods 475 university students (78.9% girls; mean age 20.22±1.695) answered Portuguese versions of: GPIU Scale, Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale-13, NEO-FFI-20, Depression, Anxiety Stress Scales other questions about use. Chi-square Mann-Whitney tests were performed using SPSS. Results Individuals high (median+2SD; n=18; 3.8%) spent significantly more time/day in online activities, exceeding what they have planned; had no hobbies used social networks to meet friends; reported that interfered affective/work relationships academic performance (all p<.05). There significant differences purposes (e-mail, networks, shopping, videogames, multimedia, sexual, work…), unless for general information searching betting games (both High-PGIU group also presented higher neuroticism, negative (but not positive) perfectionism, depression, anxiety, stress p<.001). Conclusions Our results indicate unlike use, personality, perceived interference cognitive-emotional processes symptoms (psychological distress) may help distinguishing functional vs. dysfunctional Considering preponderance over contents presence certain dimensions, such as perception uncontrollability, isolation we add evidence consider PGIU falling within spectrum disorders. Conflict interest No relationships.