Although the Internet is enriching in many respects, it has also become a trap for many people. The term 'Internet addiction' refers to uncontrolled, excessively time-consuming preoccupation with Internet content, leading to sustained restriction of everyday life for the user. Despite the problems associated with excessive use and an awareness that the behaviour has long since lost its attraction, it is continued and gives rise to psychological stress. How is it that the Internet creates addiction? Do people who are affected need to do without all the benefits of digital media even after they have been successfully treated? Are all user groups equally at risk? These and other questions are clarified in this book.

Dr. Kai W. Müller is a research assistant and Dr. Klaus Wölfling is Psychological Director of the Outpatient Clinic for Gambling Addiction in the Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy at Mainz University Hospital.