European Journal of Cardiovascular Medicine

Background: Addiction to the internet is becoming more common among teenagers, but very few studies conducted in India have examined and taken into account the numerous elements that may contribute to internet addiction in this at-risk demographic. We investigate the differences between adolescents with and without internet addiction in family functioning, temperament, character, and psychopathology. Methods and Materials: 2000 teenagers from urban middle-class families participated in this comparative cross-sectional study using a two-randomized group design. The participants for the clinical and control groups were drawn from high schools. Those having a serious internet addiction were contrasted with others who didn't have one. As a screening tool, the Internet Addiction Test, Temperament and Character Inventory, Devereux Scale of Mental Disorders, McMaster Family Assessment Device, and General Health Questionnaire were all administered. The statistical analysis was performed using Epi Info 7 edition. Result: Adolescents who were addicted to the internet had strong novelty seeking and low persistence. Depression and behavioural issues were also linked to internet addiction. Depression and years of internet use were significantly positively correlated. Families of young people with internet addiction have more trouble communicating, settling problems, controlling their behaviour, and being affectively attentive and involved. Conclusion: Study concluded that adolescents that use the internet excessively tend to have temperamental issues, increased psychopathology, and unstable households. Family-centered techniques for managing internet addiction must be addressed because families are so important in Indian culture.