The Effects of Group Cognitive Behavioral Therapy on the Improvement of Depression and Anxiety in Adolescents with Problematic Internet Use

Objectives: The overuse of the Internet among adolescents has increased dramatically in recent years, leading to pathological or problematic Internet use. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is known to be effective for the treatment of problematic Internet use, particularly for adolescents. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of group CBT for problematic Internet use in adolescents. Methods: A total of 17 patients aged 12-17 years who met Young's diagnostic questionnaire criteria of problematic Internet use participated in a school-based eight-session group CBT program. The level of problematic Internet use among participating students was measured using Young's Internet Addiction Scale (IAS). Depression and anxiety levels were evaluated using the Children's Depression Inventory (CDI) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), respectively. Each construct was assessed at baseline, immediately after the intervention, and at a one-month follow-up visit. Statistical significance was based on a p-value of