Design of a Guided Internet- and Mobile-Based Intervention for Internet Use Disorder—Study Protocol for a Two-Armed Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Context: Internet Use Disorder (IUD), characterized as the inability to control one's internet use, is emerging as an increasing societal concern as it is associated with reduced quality of life and mental health comorbidities. Evidence-based treatment options are, however, scarce due to the novelty of the diagnosis. Internet-and mobile-based interventions may be an effective means to deliver psychological treatment to individuals with IUD as they address individuals affected in their online setting. The aim of the study is to evaluate the efficacy of a newly developed, guided internet-and mobile-based intervention for IUD. Methods: In a two-armed randomized controlled trial (N = 130), individuals showing problematic internet use patterns (Internet Addiction Test ≥ 49) will be randomly allocated to the internet-and mobile-based intervention or a waiting control group. Assessments will take place at baseline, 7 weeks, 6-and 12 months after randomization. The primary outcome is internet addiction symptom severity (IAT) at 7 weeks. Secondary outcomes include quality of life, depressive symptoms, anxiety, and other psychosocial variables associated with IUD. Intervention: The intervention consists of seven sessions: Goal setting and motivational interviewing, impulse control, problem solving, cognitive restructuring, self-worth, relapse prevention, and a booster session. Participants are supported by an eCoach who provides individual feedback after completion of each session. Participants can choose between several elective sessions based on individual need. Conclusions: This is the first study to evaluate an internet-and mobile-based intervention for IUD, which could be a promising first step to reduce individuals' disease burden. Trial Registration: DRKS00015314. The study is currently ongoing. First participants were enrolled in the study on September 14th 2018. Recruitment will continue approximately through March 2020.

Effects of an online-based motivational intervention to reduce problematic internet use and promote treatment motivation in internet gaming disorder and internet use disorder (OMPRIS): study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

“…25 26 For IUDs, there are only few studies that have systematically examined MI approaches, but it has been widely discussed as a therapeutic option for patients with IUD. [27][28][29][30][31] eHealth interventions in addictive disorders Internet-based and eHealth interventions (eg, for depression and anxiety disorders) have been reported as effective treatment options with medium to large effect sizes. 32 33 Also, internet-based and eHealth interventions have been examined in the areas of (mainly substance) addiction.…”

“…29 Furthermore, a recent study protocol presenting an ongoing RCT of an eCoachguided internet-based intervention for IUD has recently been published. 27 Our research group performed a preliminary uncontrolled study between 2016 and 2018 exploring an online outpatient service for internet addiction (OASIS) with only two offered webcam sessions. 38 The aim was to test whether individuals with IUD can generally be reached via the internet and to refer them to conventional medical treatment close to their place of residence.…”

“… 25 26 For IUDs, there are only few studies that have systematically examined MI approaches, but it has been widely discussed as a therapeutic option for patients with IUD. 27–31 …”

“… 29 Furthermore, a recent study protocol presenting an ongoing RCT of an eCoach-guided internet-based intervention for IUD has recently been published. 27 …”

Telemedicine as bridge to the offline world for person affected with problematic internet use or internet use disorder and concerned significant others

“… 41 Two randomized controlled trials of telemedicine interventions for individuals with IUD are currently ongoing. A guided Internet- and mobile-based intervention for individuals with IUD with pre-defined sessions and individualized feedback after completion of each session 42 as well as a four-week manualized webcam-based motivational intervention in a one-to-one setting with a personal consultant by our research group. 43 Although systematic reviews across various disorders show that primarily women use telemedicine services and health applications, 44 , 45 the samples of existing telemedicine services for individuals with IUD are primarily defined by men.…”