Classification of adults with problematic internet experiences: linking internet and conventional problems from a clinical perspective.
This article utilizes data from clinical reports of 929 adults to examine whether various problematic Internet experiences are distinctly different from or extensions of conventional problems. A TwoStep Cluster Analysis identified three mutually exclusive groups of adults, those with (1) online relationship problems and victimization; (2) online and offline problems; and (3) marital discord. Results suggest some initial support for the idea that problematic Internet experiences are often extensions of experiences and behaviors that pre-date the Internet. However, the Internet may be introducing some qualitatively new dimensions-such as an increased severity, an increased frequency, or unique dynamics-that require new responses or interventions.
Mitchell
Kimberly J
KJ
Crimes against Children Research Center, University of New Hampshire, 10 West Edge Dr., Ste. 106, Durham, NH 03824, USA. Kimberly.Mitchell@unh.edu
Finkelhor
David
D
Becker-Blease
Kathryn A
KA
D000328:Adult; D000339:Affect; D016000:Cluster Analysis; D003220:Conflict, Psychological; D003710:Demography; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008297:Male; D008393:Marriage / Q000523:psychology; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy; D008605:Mental Health Services / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D008875:Middle Aged; D012381:Role Playing; D012725:Sexual Behavior / Q000523:psychology*; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000523:psychology; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires