Treatment Considerations in Internet and Video Game Addiction: A Qualitative Discussion

Abstract

Internet and video game addiction has been a steadily developing consequence of modern living. Behavioral and process addictions and particularly Internet and video game addiction require specialized treatment protocols and techniques. Recent advances in addiction medicine have improved our understanding of the neurobiology of substance and behavioral addictions. Novel research has expanded the ways we understand and apply well-established addiction treatments as well as newer therapies specific to Internet and video game addiction. This article reviews the etiology, psychology, and neurobiology of Internet and video game addiction and presents treatment strategies and protocols for addressing this growing problem.

Keywords: Child and adolescent addiction medicine; Internet addiction; Internet addiction treatment; Online gaming; Process addiction; Smartphone addiction; Social media; Video game addiction.