Hidden addiction: Television

Steve Sussman, Meghan B. Moran

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

24 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background and aims: The most popular recreational pastime in the U.S. is television viewing. Some researchers have claimed that television may be addictive. We provide a review of the definition, etiology, prevention and treatment of the apparent phenomenon of television addiction. Methods: Selective review. Results: We provide a description of television (TV) addiction, including its negative consequences, assessment and potential etiology, considering neurobiological, cognitive and social/cultural factors. Next, we provide information on its prevention and treatment. Discussion and conclusions: We suggest that television addiction may function similarly to substance abuse disorders but a great deal more research is needed.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)125-132
Number of pages8
JournalJournal of Behavioral Addictions
Volume2
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Sep 1 2013
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Addiction
  • Prevention
  • Television
  • Treatment

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Medicine (miscellaneous)
  • Clinical Psychology
  • Psychiatry and Mental health

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