The Effect of a Family-based Intervention Model On Internet-addicted Chinese Adolescents

Abstract

We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a family-based intervention program for Internet addiction in Chinese adolescents. Adolescents (N = 57), diagnosed as having Internet addiction, were divided randomly into an intervention group (n = 28) and a control group (n = 29). Participants in the intervention group participated in a 14-session family-based group intervention while participants in the control group received conventional group therapy only. Assessment tools were administered to both groups at baseline, immediately after the intervention, and at 1-month and 3-month follow-ups. Results indicted that the family-based group intervention is more effective in decreasing Internet use and enhancing family function.