The Relationship Between Problematic Internet Use and Attention Deficit, Hyperactivity and Impulsivity: A Meta-analysis

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between problematic internet use (PIU) and ADHD-related symptoms of attention deficit, impulsivity and hyperactivity.

Methods: We chose a meta-analytical approach and searched for relevant studies in different databases (Pubmed, PsycInfo, Google scholar). We identified 24 studies with 18 859 participants (mean age = 18.40 (SD = 5.51)) published between 2004 and 2021 which were applicable for our research. We calculated 21, 7, and 9 effect sizes for attention deficit, hyperactivity and impulsivity, respectively.

Results: We found significant associations between PIU and attention deficit (r = 0.36, 95% confidence interval = [0.28 to 0.43]), hyperactivity (r = 0.44, 95% confidence interval = [0.33 to 0.53]), and impulsivity (r = 0.41, 95% confidence interval = [0.30 to 0.51]), p < .001 for all three. The effect sizes of attention deficit and hyperactivity were significantly higher in male compared to female participants. Additionally, higher attention deficit effects were found in adults compared to children/adolescents.

Conclusions: Our meta-analysis indicates that ADHD-related symptoms are associated with PIU. Although cross-sectional analyses cannot explain cause-and-effect relationships, we hypothesize that attention deficit, hyperactivity and impulsivity constitute a vulnerability towards PIU.