Abstract

In this paper we present the state of the art of the Internet Addiction Disorder (IAD) and some alternative theoretical models critical with the category of Internet addiction. The review of the literature shows that IAD is an umbrella concept, and that there is not a common definition. In our society in which a great deal of activity is carried out online, it is not useful to talk about a generic «Internet addiction». In this paper we show the theoretical and methodological issues of IAD construct that induced some researchers to shift the focus to specific psychopathology related to the Internet. New systematic studies on specific activities about dysfunctional conducted online are necessary. Prevention and treatment strategies should lean towards more functional navigation styles rather than to a general reduction of Internet use.