The results, published in PLOS Mental Healthreviewed 12 articles involving 237 young people aged 10 to 19 with a formal diagnosis of Internet addiction between 2013 and 2023.
Internet addiction is characterized by a person’s inability to resist the urge to use the Internet, which negatively impacts their psychological well-being, as well as their social, academic, and professional life.
Changes in neural networks in adolescents
The studies used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to examine the functional connectivity (the interaction between brain regions) of participants with Internet addiction, both at rest and while performing tasks.
The effects of this addiction have been observed in several neural networks in adolescent brains. Both increased and reduced activity was seen in parts of the brain activated at rest (the default mode network).
Furthermore, a general decrease in functional connectivity was noted in parts of the brain involved in active thinking (the executive control network).
These changes can lead to addictive behaviors and tendencies in adolescents, as well as behavioral changes related to intellectual ability, physical coordination, mental health, and development.
Max Chang, Master of Science student at the UCL Great Ormond Street Institute for Child Health and lead author of the study, said: “Adolescence is a crucial developmental phase during which individuals undergo significant changes in their biology, cognition and personality. Therefore, the brain is particularly vulnerable to Internet addiction-related urges during this time, such as compulsive Internet use, urges to use the mouse or keyboard, and media consumption. »
Behavioral consequences and recommendations
Chang adds: “The results of our study show that this can lead to potentially negative behavioral and developmental changes that could impact adolescents’ lives. For example, they may have difficulty maintaining relationships and social activities, lie about their online activity, and experience eating and sleeping disorders. »
With the increasing accessibility of smartphones and laptops, internet addiction is a growing global problem. Previous research has shown that Brits spend more than 24 hours a week online and more than half of those surveyed say they are addicted to the internet. Additionally, an Ofcom study found that among the UK’s 50 million internet users, more than 60% said their internet use had a negative effect on their lives, such as being late or neglecting household chores.
Irene Lee, co-lead author and researcher at the UCL Great Ormond Street Institute for Child Health, said: “There is no doubt that the Internet has some benefits. However, when it starts to affect our daily lives, it is a problem. We advise young people to reasonably limit their time spent online and to be aware of the psychological and social implications of excessive use. »
Dr. Chang concludes: “We hope our results will demonstrate how Internet addiction changes the connection between brain networks in adolescents, allowing doctors to more effectively screen and treat early Internet addiction.” »
Contributions and Limits:
Contributions:
- Identification of Affected Neural Networks: The study clearly identifies default mode and executive control networks as being impacted by Internet addiction, which can guide future research and therapeutic interventions.
- Behavioral and Developmental Implications: The links established between brain modifications and behavioral changes provide concrete avenues for clinical interventions.
Boundaries :
- Limited Geographic Sample: The study sample is comprised primarily of Asian participants, which limits the generalizability of the results to other populations. Comparative studies with Western samples are necessary.
- Sample size : Although relatively large compared to some previous studies, the sample of 237 young people remains limited to draw definitive conclusions.
The UCL study represents a significant step forward in understanding internet addiction among adolescents. It is part of a growing literature but stands out for its advanced use of fMRI and its focus on a crucial developmental period. To strengthen its findings, additional research with more diverse and larger samples would be beneficial. Meanwhile, this study provides a solid foundation for the early detection and treatment of Internet addiction.
