Research on problematic Internet use is growing due to its importance in various contex. Debates persist on whether problematic Internet use is addictive and which activities should be considered for clinical diagnosis. Internet addiction (IA) is an uncontrollable urge to use the internet, leading to devaluation of time, intense anxiety, and deteriorating social and family life.
Studies show a correlation between psychiatric disorders (PD) and IA, with Axis-I disorders often co-occurring with pathological Internet use. However, personality traits are often overlooked as risk factors for developing IA.
Narcissistic tendencies have been found to be related to social media addiction in previous studies. They can strengthen their ideal selves and fantasy powers in the virtual world.
Borderline personality disorder (BPD) features with affective instability and impulsivity have been shown to correlate with IA in cross-sectional studies. Individuals with histrionic PD who need more social approval and have a desire to be liked are more likely to develop social media addiction and a problematic use of social media.