expressed needs of students for prevention of internet addiction: a content analysis study

Background: college students are particularly vulnerable to developing internet addiction. understanding students’ needs for preventing as well as managing internet addiction should be considered. objectives: the purpose of this study was to explore the multidimensional needs of students for the prevention of internet addiction. methods: this qualitative study was performed in sanandaj, iran, between september and december 2015. fifteen participants who are addicted to the internet, based upon a self-reported questionnaire, were purposefully selected from 3 local universities. data was collected using focus groups, individual semi-structured interviews, and drawings. conventional content analysis methods were utilized to analyze data. results: fifteen students (mean age 26.3±3.2 years) with an average score for internet addiction of 59.3 participated in the study. students’ needs for the prevention of internet addiction included 4 major categories: social support, personal competence, appropriate culture, as well as maintenance and improvement of health. conclusions: prevention programs for internet addiction need to promote social supports, teach personal competence, establish an appropriate culture, and prioritize good health.