Internet addiction and addiction to computer games in the work of Russian psychologists

Abstract

Objectives. This literary review is devoted to domestic research in the field of psychology of Internet addiction and addiction to computer games. Background. The popularity of topics related to Internet technologies is explained by their novelty, great dynamism and poorly studied, which causes social anxiety, catalyzing the activity of scientists in this area. In addition, one can note the high rate of spread of cyberdictions, due to which some authors are in a hurry to call them a threat to society. The structure of the study. The article provides data on the criteria, diagnostic techniques, causes, programs for the prevention and rehabilitation of Internet addiction and computer games, gives psychological characteristics of addicts, and traces the current trends in research into this problem area. Conclusions. According to the results of domestic empirical studies, Internet users, Internet addicts and gamers have negative psychological characteristics. The Internet has a destructive influence on the person, which is manifested in the simplification of speech, isolationism, and Internet users have difficulties in communication, a tendency to negativity, inadequate self-esteem, etc. Internet addicts will be characterized by deviations in the intellectual, motivational spheres, interpersonal relationships, coping strategies, value orientations, and planning. Users who are addicted to computer games will be distinguished by inconsistency with social norms, an overestimation of their capabilities, an unformed form of self, and unmotivated actions. Currently, the grounds for highlighting the criteria for cyberdictions are being rethought, more and more publications are turning to the positive impact of the Internet and computer games, noting their resource potential.