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ADHD and Problematic Interactive Media Use

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Abstract

Problematic Interactive Media Use (PIMU) encompasses excessive gaming, social media, pornography, and/or information/video-bingeing. We review the history of media-related concerns from television to current interactive media, acknowledging the pervasive nature of the digital world in the lives of adolescents. We clarify the emerging diagnostic criteria for media-related disorders, which are strongly associated with ADHD. In fact, the experience of PIMU can be magnified in adolescents with ADHD, who are more susceptible due to self-regulation and impulse control challenges. Treatment strategies for PIMU and their rationale highlight treatment of underlying and co-occurring disorders, such as managing ADHD symptoms with medications, and employing carefully considered therapeutic approaches. Finally, we review the role of parents in setting clear media use expectations, and we suggest a proactive approach to media management to mitigate risks, one that promotes mindful and focused engagement to optimize outcomes for affected adolescents

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Tsappis, M., Kavanaugh, J.R., Rich, M. (2025). ADHD and Problematic Interactive Media Use. In: Schonwald, A., Cormier, D., McCafferty, S. (eds) ADHD in Adolescents. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-96950-8_14

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