The bits and bytes of computer Internet addiction: A factor analytic approach

A factor analytic approach was used to explore possible constructs underlyi ng so-called computer/Internet addiction. A 94-item survey was developed, f rom which two major and two minor factors were derived. Factor 1 focused on problematic computer-related behaviors in heavy users of the Internet, whe reas Factor 2 focused on the usefulness and general purpose nature of compu ters and the Internet. Factor 3 isolated a combination of use of the Intern et for sexual gratification and shyness/introversion, and Factor 4 Focused on an absence of problems related to Internet use that were coupled with a mild aversion or a disinterest in this technology. These data support the n otion that some individuals have a mixture of obsessive-like characteristic s related specifically to their computer/Internet use but that, not surpris ingly, they also exhibit a preference for on-line, rather than in-person, i nteractions.