The following 8 questions, adapted from the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic evaluation for gambling addiction, are used to differentiate between addicted and non addicted internet users.
These questions are not yet endorsed by the APA as a diagnostic evaluation for internet addiction, but are used by many practitioners as a screening tool.
The test was developed by Dr. Kimberly Young.
8 Question Internet Addiction Test
- Do you feel preoccupied with the Internet (think about previous online activity or anticipate next online session)?
- Do you feel the need to use the Internet with increasing amounts of time in order to achieve satisfaction?
- Have you repeatedly made unsuccessful efforts to control, cut back, or stop Internet use?
- Do you feel restless, moody, depressed, or irritable when attempting to cut down or stop Internet use?
- Do you stay on-line longer than originally intended?
- Have you jeopardized or risked the loss of significant relationship, job, educational or career opportunity because of the Internet?
- Have you lied to family members, therapist, or others to conceal the extent of involvement with the Internet?
- Do you use the Internet as a way of escaping from problems or of relieving a dysphoric mood (e.g., feelings of helplessness, guilt, anxiety, depression)?
Answering yes to 5 or more of the preceding question indicates an internet addiction.
This test has not been endorsed by the APA, nor has it been proven to be an accurate diagnostic tool.
If you answer yes to any number of the preceding questions, you should consider the possibility of an addiction, and should take steps to get a more formal diagnosis from a licensed doctor or therapist.
Internet addiction is treatable, but it won't go away on its own.
Page last updated Aug 19, 2010
