Problematic Internet use (PIU) in youth: a brief literature review of selected topics

We aimed to discuss several selected topics related to problematic Internet use (PIU), including fear of missing out, nomophobia, cyberchondria, cyberbullying, and certain health conditions (e.g. autism-spectrum disorder and schizophrenia) among youth. We also aimed to review some recent evidence examining PIU during COVID-19. The review was conducted using keywords relevant to the selected topics and searching in the PubMed database and Google Scholar. The results of this review indicate that PIU could be associated with health issues in a minority of the youth population. Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic may lead to PIU and subsequent health problems. Information from this review could help healthcare providers to design individualized and appropriate interventions to tackle health issues related to PIU among youth. •Problematic Internet use (PIU) is an addictive behavior with debates over taxonomy.•Mental health conditions (e.g. autism) are associated with PIU among youth.•The COVID-19 pandemic may lead to PIU and subsequent health problems.•PIU may cause fear of missing out, nomophobia, cyberchondria, and cyberbullying.