Technology addictions, including gaming and social media, are becoming more prevalent, particularly among teenagers and young adults. Recognizing the symptoms of these conditions and their risks and consequences can help people seek necessary intervention to reduce their impact.
Digital double bind: Gaming and social media addiction
People of all ages are increasingly becoming addicted to technology, in particular, to gaming and social media. Technology addictions are increasingly discussed within scientific research and the psychiatric community, particularly the ways the conditions are diagnosed and recognized. [1][2]
Internet gaming disorder (IGD) has been added to the most recent Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) as a condition that requires further research to define the symptoms and criteria clearly. [2][3]
Social media addiction, however, is not listed in the DSM-5, although clinicians can utilize the proposed diagnostic criteria for IGD to recognize symptoms that require intervention. [2][3]
Both types of addiction can be recognized by the presence of at least five of the following symptoms: [3][4]
- Preoccupation with video games or social media.
- Unpleasant symptoms, or withdrawal, when not using video games or social media.
- The need for increased amounts of time spent playing video games or using social media.
- Inability to reduce or control the amount of time spent playing video games or on social media.
- Reduced interest or engagement in other hobbies and activities.
- Impairments in professional or social functioning because of video game or social media use.
- Continuing to use social media or video games despite negative consequences.
- Lying to others about the time spent on video games or social media.
- Using social media or video games as an escape or emotional coping strategy.
People with low self-esteem or who are socially isolated may be at a higher risk of experiencing IGD or social media addiction. Similarly, mental health issues such as anxiety and depression may worsen or be worsened by these addictions. [4][5]
Key differences in risk profiles
| Gaming addiction | Social media addiction | |
|---|---|---|
| Demographics | Mostly males and adolescents. | Predominantly females and young adults. |
| DSM V status | Internet Gaming Disorder is highlighted as a condition that requires clinical attention and further research. | Not listed as a condition. |
| Symptoms |
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| Physical and mental health impact |
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| Underlying factors |
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Brain and reward system differences
Both IGD and social media addiction are believed to impact the brain’s reward system and dopamine release, similar to the effects of substance addiction. Both can result in a gradual increase in use, withdrawal symptoms, cravings, and tolerance. [4][5]
Key differences in these mechanisms include: [6]
- Intensity and frequency: Gaming causes larger dopamine spikes than social media use. However, social media stimulation is more consistent.
- Brain areas: Gaming impacts the prefrontal cortex and ventral striatum, causing a reduction in gray and white matter. Social media is more likely to impact the nucleus accumbens.
- Neural effects: The impact of gaming on the brain causes reduced impulse control and impaired decision-making, whereas social media affects reward anticipation and emotion.
How interventions compare
Evidence-based interventions for both conditions are limited, although some interventions have shown promise. Interventions that can be utilized in the treatment of both include: [4][5][7]
- CBT: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based treatment in substance addiction treatment and can be beneficial in IGD and social media addiction. It can help individuals to recognize and change addictive behaviors, manage underlying mental health symptoms, and create positive coping strategies.
- Mindfulness: Mindfulness practices help increase awareness of thoughts and feelings, recognize harmful behaviors, and improve self-regulation. These practices have proven to be effective in addiction treatments.
- Education: Education and awareness programs can help people understand the risks of IGD and social media addiction, how to implement healthy behaviors to improve critical thinking and resilience, and reduce dependence.
Some interventions that have been developed and utilized in IGD treatment include: [4][7]
- PIPATIC: Programa Individualizado Psicoterapéutico para la Adicción a las TecnologÃas de la información y la comunicación (PIPATIC) is an intervention program developed in Spain, intended for use among adolescents aged 12-18 with IGD. It comprises six modules to reduce addiction symptoms and improve well-being. Results of its use have so far been positive.Â
- Medications: Antidepressants such as bupropion or escitalopram have shown some promise in treating IGD.
Prevention strategies for parents and individuals
Prevention strategies for parents and individuals can include: [5]
- Setting limits on the time spent on devices per day.
- Putting passwords or locks on devices that prevent child access.
- Monitoring online activity of children and teens on social media and other gaming platforms.
- Using parental controls to limit and restrict access to certain explicit content, apps, and websites.
- Turning off the internet at certain times.
- Deleting apps from cell phones.
- Setting boundaries around use during meals, family time, study or work, or recreational activities.
- Engaging in other hobbies and activities, including outdoor sports, social activities, classes, or art.
- Making the bedroom a device-free zone to help ensure good sleep quality.
When to seek professional help
Professional help may be required if a severe addiction has developed, resulting in significant impairments in functioning, physical health, or mental well-being. A professional can offer advice and support and may make a referral to specialist services if required.
