The biopsychosocial impact of abusive use of digital media

Abstract

From the perspective of a technological revolution, today, we live a daily life based on the relationship between the individual and technology, where the rise of the role of digital media stands out. Faced with this situation, researchers discuss the intelligent and pathological use of these media, as well as their biopsychosocial impacts. According to scientific literature, the world epidemiology of Internet addiction (IA) varies from 5% to almost 38%. This disorder is not yet included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V) and the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Problems Related to Health (ICD-11). However, it is already considered a serious public health problem in several countries. Besides, studies have already established a relationship between ICD and psychiatric comorbidities (depression, anxiety, sleep disorder), in addition to causing damages to the individual in several areas of his life, such as at work/study and also in personal and parental relationships. Moreover, it has not yet been established whether the comorbidities trigger the DI or if it triggers such comorbidities. Due to its similarity with some symptoms of substance abuse, there are already some treatments such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, which shows positive results in the outcome. Therefore, it is noted that this disorder, although new, already affects a large portion of the population concomitant with pathological symptoms that impact the lives of individuals and their physical and emotional health, revealing the importance of attention and clinical care that this disorder requires.