Extraversion, impulsivity, and online group membership as predictors of problematic internet use.

The present study investigated predictors of problematic Internet use. Undergraduate students (N = 272) completed a self-report questionnaire measuring extraversion, impulsivity, online group membership, frequency of use, and gender as predictors of problematic Internet use. Males and females differed significantly in their use of the Internet, with males significantly more likely to be Gamers than were females, and females significantly more likely to be Workers. Professional users reported significantly less problematic Internet use than nonprofessional users. Hierarchical regression analysis indicated that higher frequency of use, lack of perseverance (an aspect of impulsivity), and online group membership significantly predicted problematic Internet use. Given recent concerns about the growth of Internet addiction, this study extends our knowledge of the role played by personality, usage profile, and gender in this developing field of study.