A cognitive-behavioral model of pathological Internet use

This article introduces a cognitive-behavioral model of Pathological Intern et Use (PIU). While previous studies on Internet addiction have described b ehavioral factors, such as withdrawal and tolerance, the present article fo cuses on the maladaptive cognitions associated with PIU. The cognitive-beha vioral model of PIU distinguishes between specific PIU and generalized PIU. Specific PIU refers to the condition in which an individual pathologically uses the Internet for a particular purpose, such as online sex or online g ambling, whereas generalized PIU describes a more global set of behaviors. The model implies a more important role of cognitions in PIU, and describes the means by which PIU is both developed and maintained. Furthermore, it p rovides a framework for the development of cognitive-behavioral interventio ns for PIU. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.