Investigating the prevalence of problematic internet use
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Investigating the prevalence and presentation of problematic internet usage in clinical populations.
IRAS ID
343100
Contact name
Debra Marais
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Hertfordshire University Doctoral College
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 11 months, 2 days
Research summary
The research is aiming to explore Problematic Usage of the Internet (PUI) in populations with mental health diagnosis. It will be using a series of self-report measures to explore the frequency of PUI in this population and whether there are links between mental health diagnosis, impulsivity, compulsivity and types of PUI. The sample will consist of a group of adults who have a diagnosis of a mental health difficulty who have consented to be contacted for research purposes by Hertfordshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust. Those who consent to take part will complete 5 online surveys, these are estimated to take a total of approximately 20 minutes. These include a survey devised to obtain demographic and diagnostic information (formal diagnosis, age, gender, ethnicity) as well as brief information on subjective views on their internet use; The Internet Severity and Activities Addiction Questionnaire (ISAAQ) measuring internet behaviours; the Barret Impulsivity Scale (BIS) measuring the impulsivity levels of an individual; the Compulsivity Personality Assessment Scale (CPAS) measuring the level of compulsivity; the Work and Social Adjustment Scale (WSAS) measuring impairment to daily functioning. The results from these surveys will be compiled and analysed to answer 3 main research questions. What is the frequency of PUI in clinical populations? What is the relationship between subtypes of PUI and diagnosis, compulsivity, and impulsivity dimensions? What is the impairment to functioning for those with PUI and co-occurring mental health presentations? The understanding gained from this research can help inform if there are more susceptible populations for PUI, and if there are moderators for the presence of this, which can then inform future support offerings.
REC name
London - Camden & Kings Cross Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
24/PR/1055
Date of REC Opinion
24 Sep 2024
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion