Low self-directedness is a better predictor for problematic internet use than high neuroticism

The classification of internet addiction as a distinct diagnosis in the upcoming DSM-V is currently under debate. Nevertheless, before this issue is resolved, there are important related questions in the field of internet addiction that are in need of an answer, e.g. which personality dimensions may predispose towards problematic internet use. One such factor seems to be neuroticism. However, a sole factor like neuroticism alone is not very useful with respect to generating implications for behavior therapy and treatment of afflicted patients, because it includes too many facets of negative personality traits ranging from shyness to anxiety. Therefore, in this study we aimed to measure the grade of problematic internet use with the internet addiction test (IAT); moreover, we measured personality with Eysenck’s Personality Questionnaire (EPQ-R) and with the Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI). In addition to the EPQ-R, the TCI provides further information with respect to which facets of personality are associated with problematic internet use. In N = 201 participants, we found that self-directedness is a better predictor than neuroticism for problematic internet use. Moreover, the time spent online in leisure activities was a significant predictor for a high IAT score. Implications for behavior therapy are discussed.