Classification of adults with problematic internet experiences: linking internet and conventional problems from a clinical perspective. |
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Authors: | Kimberly J Mitchell David Finkelhor Kathryn A Becker-Blease |
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Institution: | Crimes against Children Research Center, University of New Hampshire, 10 West Edge Dr., Ste. 106, Durham, NH 03824, USA. Kimberly.Mitchell@unh.edu |
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Abstract: | 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. |
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