Hidden addiction: Television Cover Image

Hidden addiction: Television
Hidden addiction: Television

Author(s): Steve Sussman, Meghan B. Moran
Subject(s): Psychology, Media studies, Behaviorism, Substance abuse and addiction, Health and medicine and law
Published by: Akadémiai Kiadó
Keywords: addiction; television; prevention; treatment;

Summary/Abstract: The most popular recreational pastime in the U.S. is television viewing. Some researchers have claimed that television may be addictive. We provide a review of the definition, etiology, prevention and treatment of the apparent phenomenon of television addiction. Methods: Selective review. Results: We provide a description of television (TV) addiction, including its negative consequences, assessment and potential etiology, considering neurobiological, cognitive and social/cultural factors. Next, we provide information on its prevention and treatment. Discussion and conclusions: We suggest that television addiction may function similarly to substance abuse disorders but a great deal more research is needed.

  • Issue Year: 2/2013
  • Issue No: 3
  • Page Range: 125-132
  • Page Count: 8
  • Language: English