Do we really understand addictions to internet well enough to be able to manage it in the young population: A viewpoint

Behavior addictions, including those to internet and smartphones, stem largely from underlying vulnerabilities. This article describes a framework that takes into consideration these vulnerabilities, the environmental conditions that contribute to addictions, the actual addiction and the secondary effects of addictions. In the author's view, this framework can be used to help come up with a comprehensive and individualized formulation when assessing behavior addictions in the young population thereby helping in tailored management. Some important underlying vulnerabilities include symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorders, anxiety, depression, and trait impulsivity. The modifying effects of the environment on these vulnerabilities need to be understood comprehensively, especially those relating to parenting, schooling, and secondary effects of psychiatric problems in family members. The content of the actual addiction has to be properly understood as it can include a variety of different things such as gaming, social media, shopping, and gambling. Addiction processes including impulsive-compulsive phenomena, withdrawal, and craving have to be factored in the management plan. The secondary effects of addictions including the physical, psychiatric, and those related to exploitation of these children also need to be addressed systematically. The formulation and management plan therefore can possibly include a number of psychiatric disorders, temperamental traits, environmental conditions, and various secondary health aspects of the addiction. The goals of managing behavior addictions related to internet and smartphone usage are predominantly about harm reduction as our lives have become increasingly dependent on the benefits of this smart technology.