Authors : Rahul Singhal; Sumit Singh

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 7 - July

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/bp9j6pka

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/3hjaxrew

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26jul1863

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : Internet Addiction has emerged as a significant behavioural concern over the past few decades. This narrative review traces the conceptual, empirical and clinical developments in internet addiction research from 1995 to 2026. Early discussions compared excessive internet use with substance dependence and pathological gambling, leading to debates regarding diagnostic legitimacy. Subsequent research focused on psychometric validation, cognitive-behavioural models, neurobiological correlates and structured treatment approaches. Evidence consistently demonstrated strong associations between internet addiction and psychopathologies such as depression, anxiety, stress, loneliness, ADHD and impaired emotional regulation. Indian and cross-cultural studies further established its global relevance. Recent investigations highlight mediating and moderating mechanisms, including resilience, hope, prosocial behaviour, impulsivity and peer relationships. The review suggests that internet addiction may function as a maladaptive coping strategy masking underlying psychological distress. Understanding its developmental pathways and protective factors is essential for effective prevention and intervention strategies.

Keywords : Internet Addiction, Problematic Internet Use, Depression, Anxiety, Psychopathology, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Resilience, Adolescents, Narrative Review.

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