Internet Addiction in Brazilian Adolescents: A Systematic Review of Empirical Evidences from the Last Decade

Abstract

Problematic internet use among Brazilian adolescents has emerged as a critical mental health concern. This systematic review analyzed empirical studies on Internet Addiction (IA) published between 2013 and 2023, identified in PubMed/MEDLINE, SciELO, LILACS(BVS), and Scopus databases. Out of 62 articles screened, 16 met the inclusion criteria and were assessed using the JBI Checklist for cross-sectional studies. The findings revealed alarming prevalence rates: 50%-60% of adolescents exhibited moderate risk of IA, while approximately 10% were classified as severe cases. Factors such as anxiety, depression, impulsivity, female gender, insomnia, and the COVID-19 pandemic context showed significant associations with IA. Regarding assessment tools, 62.5% of the studies used the Internet Addiction Test (IAT), and 25% employed the Smartphone Addiction Inventory (SPAI), both demonstrating good psychometric reliability. The results align with international literature, underscoring the severity of IA in Brazil, particularly during the pandemic. Methodological heterogeneity and the lack of longitudinal studies highlight the need for standardized assessment tools and multidisciplinary interventions tailored to this population. These findings emphasize the urgency of public policies and prevention strategies to mitigate the impacts of IA on adolescent health.