Depression risk linked to heavy Internet use
12 February 2010
Being considered dependent on the Internet, particularly for socialising, is clearly linked with depression, especially among younger people, researchers say.
A total of 1319 people (mean age 21 years), completed an Internet use questionnaire, along with the Beck Depression Inventory (a series of questions used to detect depression and its severity), with 1.2 per cent identified as Internet dependent (Psychopathology 2010; 43: 121-26).
Those addicted to the Internet were found to be moderately to severely depressed, compared to those not addicted, who all scored in the non-depressed range. However, the researchers said it was not possible to determine if depressed people were drawn to the Internet or if excessive Internet use made people more likely to become depressed.
The Internet-dependent group engaged far more heavily in sexually gratifying websites, gaming websites and online community chat sites, the authors said. Men showed more addictive tendencies than women, as did younger people.
Last Reviewed: 12 February 2010
- 1. Morrison CM, Gore H. The Relationship between Excessive Internet Use and Depression: A Questionnaire-Based Study of 1,319 Young People and Adults. Psychopathology 2010; 43(2): 121-126. Abstract available from: http://content.karger.com/ProdukteDB/produkte.asp?Aktion=ShowAbstract&ArtikelNr=277001&Ausgabe=253793&ProduktNr=224276
