Internet addiction in Asia : reality or myth?

Abstract

This paper reviews studies on Internet addiction in Asia and summarizes the research findings on the incidence, antecedents, outcomes and treatments of this phenomenon. Results reveal that, based on studies conducted in China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Korea, there are about 12% of Asian youth that are addicted to the Internet. However, the review also raises some serious flaws and gaps in the research and highlights the need for more theoretical and rigorous research to establish a better understanding of Internet addiction in Asia.