title: The bits and bytes of computer/Internet addiction: a factor analytic approach.
abstract: A factor analytic approach was used to explore possible constructs underlying so-called computer/Internet addiction. A 94-item survey was developed, from which two major and two minor factors were derived. Factor 1 focused on problematic computer-related behaviors in heavy users of the Internet, whereas Factor 2 focused on the usefulness and general purpose nature of computers and the Internet. Factor 3 isolated a combination of use of the Internet 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 notion that some individuals have a mixture of obsessive-like characteristics related specifically to their computer/Internet use but that, not surprisingly, they also exhibit a preference for on-line, rather than in-person, interactions.
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater 74078, USA. marcp@okway.okstate.edu
authors.forename: M E
authors.initials: ME
authors.lastname: Pratarelli
authors.forename: B L
authors.initials: BL
authors.lastname: Browne
authors.forename: K
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Johnson
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D016739:Behavior, Addictive; D003625:Data Collection; D005163:Factor Analysis, Statistical; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged