Internet addiction is a "clinical disorder", says The Daily Telegraph.
This editorial, written by Dr Jerald J Block, from Portland, Oregon, has effectively put the case for more research into internet addiction.
In this independent editorial, the author makes the case for including internet addiction as a common disorder in the next update of the DSM (DSM-V).
Dr Block argues that internet addiction should be included conceptually in the group of disorders known as compulsive-impulsive spectrum disorders, and that the definition should include online or offline computer usage, with recognition of at least three subtypes.
Dr Block suggests that these subtypes share four common characteristics: excessive use, withdrawal, tolerance and negative repercussions. Excessive use is often associated with losing track of time or neglecting basic needs, such as eating or sleeping.
What were the results of the study?
In the editorial, which includes sixteen references, the author mainly describes research into the rates of internet addiction in South Korea and China and acknowledges that accurate estimates of the prevalence of the disorder in the US are lacking.
According to the editorial, the South Korean government estimates that about 210,000 South Korean children between the ages of six and 19 (2.1%) are affected by this disorder and require treatment.
South Korea has tried to deal with this problem by introducing preventive measures into schools, and training 1,043 counsellors across 190 treatment centres and hospitals to treat internet addiction.
What interpretations did the researchers draw from these results?
The author concludes that despite the cultural differences, the experience in the US is "remarkably similar to those of our Asian colleagues, and we appear to be dealing with the same issue".
He also makes the point that internet addiction can involve "significant risks".
What does the NHS Knowledge Service make of this study?
This editorial has effectively put the case for more research into internet addiction.
It also illustrates the different approaches taken by South Korea, China and the US.
