Affective temperaments and problematic Internet use in Adolescence, 26th European Congress of Psychiatry

Abstract

Introduction.– Investigating temperament types in adolescents is very important. Studies have suggested that certain affective temperament types are considerably more important for the development of symptoms of certain affective disorders. On the other hand hyperthymic temperament is considered to be a protective factor for the development of some disorders. Also it is important to examine today’s adolescent Internet use, which has become one of the most essential factors in their environment. Objectives.– The purpose of this paper was to examine the differences between hyperthymic and other types of affective temperaments (depressive, anxious, cyclothymic, irritable) in relation to internet use. Methods.– The final sample included 2113 adolescents, 56% girls and 44% boys, with mean age of 16.73. The research was conducted in 10% of all high schools in Serbia. Internet Use Disorder Scale (IUDS) and Temperament Evaluation of Memphis, Pisa, Paris and San Diego scale (TEMPS-A) for adolescents (Crombach ˛ = 0.77), were used. A two-part questionnaire (about content and activity on the internet) was also used. Results.– Adolescents with hyperthymic temperament in a statistically significantly lower percentage spend more than 20 hours per week online (Chi = 25.92, P < 0.05) and they statistically significantly more often search for the following content (sports, religious content, education, pornography). The score on IUDS scale is statistically significantly smaller lower in subjects with hyperthymic temperament (Z = −9.57, P < 0.05). Conclusions.– Adolescents with different types of affective temperaments act differently online, which offers us opportunities for prevention. Disclosure of interest.– The authors have not supplied a conflict of interest statement.