Official websites use. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites. The members are listed in the Supplementary File. Evidence-based treatments for internet use disorders IUDs are limited, and online therapy approaches are poorly studied. Participants were randomly allocated by sequential balancing randomisation to either the manualised webcam-based OMPRIS intervention or a waitlist control WLC group.
OMPRIS provided strategies from motivational interviewing, behavioural therapy, and social counselling. Follow-up assessments were conducted at 6 weeks and 6 months. Analyses were performed in the intention-to-treat population. After treatment, 81 No adverse events were reported to the trial team.
Webcam-based, specialised online therapy thus increases IUD treatment options. In summary, internet-based interventions for IUDs have not yet been adequately studied, and further extensive research is needed to evaluate their efficacy. This is the first randomized, multicentre, single-blind, superiority trial to demonstrate that webcam-based telemedicine is effective in treating internet use disorders and gaming disorders.
Our findings show that short-term, manualised, webcam-based online therapy reduces symptoms of internet use disorders, depression, and anxiety, while increasing motivation for change and self-efficacy. We also assessed symptom progression up to 6 months after intervention, making it possible to compare with previous in-person psychotherapy results. It is a valuable option for those with motivational issues, feelings of shame, or resistance to clinic treatment, and those with limited access to outpatient therapy due to long waiting lists or distance.
Further research should explore factors affecting suitability for IUD subgroups. The widespread use of the internet has brought numerous benefits, but it has also led to the emergence of a new type of addiction: internet use disorder IUD. It includes both internet gaming disorder IGD and non-gaming activities, such as online shopping, online streaming, pornography and social media use. People with IUD may have difficulty controlling the onset, intensity, and duration of their internet use and may prioritise it over other activities and interests.
