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Document Type

Original Article

Abstract

Background: High prevalence rates of internet addiction (IA) have become a global phenomenon; yet, these percentages differ from region to country. The use of different disease classifications or diagnostic criteria may explain these differences. Internet addiction is frequently difficult to diagnose. In contrast to drug dependency and substance misuse, the internet offers some distinct benefits. We aimed to review IA, assess psychiatric disorders, and detect the relationship between IA and psychiatric disorders in preteens.

Patients and Methods: This observational cross-sectional study was performed on 317 preteens aged from (9-12) years old and using internet who weren’t yet diagnosed as IA or psychiatric disorders. Those preteens were subjected to complete medical and neurological history and examination, complete psychiatric interview based on DSM 5 criteria, IA test and mini-international neuropsychiatric interview for children and adolescents.

Results: Mood disorders were significantly higher in preteens with IA than those with no IA (P= 0.049). Anxiety disorders were significantly increased in preteens with IA compared to those with no IA (P

Conclusion: Preteens with IA suffered from psychiatric disorders in more frequencies than those with no IA and these differences were significant except for substance use disorder and suicide.

Keywords

Psychiatric Disorders; Internet Addiction; Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder; Internet Addiction Test

Subject Area

Psychological

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