Date of Submission
2011
Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)
Department Chair
Robert A. DiTomasso, Ph.D., ABPP
First Advisor
Brad Rosenfield, Psy.D., Chairperson
Second Advisor
Stephanie Felgoise, Ph.D., ABPP
Third Advisor
Stephen R. Poteau, Ph.D.
Abstract
Internet use is a growing trend among every segment of the population. There are many positive aspects of internet use, such as increased information sharing, communication, business opportunities, and education. However, excessive internet usage has been shown to have a number of deleterious effects on individuals, families, and relationships. Pathological internet use is a growing concern that can have numerous negative outcomes. This study has demonstrated the fact that specific types of internet use were associated with cognitive distortion, personality traits, and relationship satisfaction. Moreover, the number of hours of internet use by type was related to average, weekly, total number of hours of internet use. A difference was also found between users and nonusers of internet pornography. The findings from this study can be used to further develop screening instruments, inform clinical practice, and improve treatment guidelines so that individuals with pathological internet use can be identified and treated.
Recommended Citation
Morris, Alexandra, "A Web of Distortion: How Internet Use is Related to Cognitive Distortion, Personality Traits, and Relationship Dissatisfaction" (2011). PCOM Psychology Dissertations. 191.
https://digitalcommons.pcom.edu/psychology_dissertations/191