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UNLABELLED: Social media addiction: An overview of the current state of research

Objectives

Social media addiction as a form of internet addiction is an increasing problem in psychotherapeutic practice, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. What is the current knowledge of psychopathology on social media addiction?

METHODS

Based on a literature search in PubMed, Researchgate, Connected Papers, and Springer Link (March/April 2024), the current state of research is summarised in the following areas: Definition, classification and diagnosis, prevalence, psychological comorbidities, personality traits, ethiopathogenetic factors (esp. attachment style and ability to mentalize), and treatment approaches.

RESULTS

The available knowledge is mainly based on studies from the last three years. Social media addiction has not yet been included in the current classification systems but can still be coded in a collective category (ICD-11: 'Disorders due to addictive behaviours, unspecified'), as studies have shown that social media addiction is a disorder in its own right. Treatment approaches investigated to date are based on various therapeutic schools and methods (i. a. cognitive behavioural therapy, art therapy, self-help).

CONCLUSIONS

Future therapy studies should include decidedly psychodynamic-based treatment methods, as latest studies have demonstrated the importance of attachment styles and mentalization ability as risk factors. Additionally, exploring the effectiveness of mentalization training in both treatment and prevention of digital addictions warrants further investigation.