Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in the Treatment of Internet Gaming Addiction: A Systematic Review

Vollständiger Abstract

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The aim of this study is to systematically examine the effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in individuals experiencing internet gaming addiction. A systematic review method was employed, and studies published in English between 2002 and 2025 were identified through searches in Google Scholar and PubMed using predetermined keywords. Within the scope of the inclusion and exclusion criteria, randomized controlled trials and experimental intervention studies were evaluated, and 10 studies were included in the review. The findings indicate that CBT is an effective intervention in reducing symptoms of internet gaming addiction. In particular, decreases in gaming duration, improvements in impulse control, and reductions in problematic gaming behaviors were observed. In addition, CBT interventions were found to have positive effects on accompanying psychological symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and stress. However, some studies suggested that the effects of CBT on social functioning and long-term behavioral change may be limited. Factors such as treatment duration, individual motivation, and psychosocial characteristics were reported to influence treatment outcomes. Furthermore, early intervention CBT programs appear to be effective in preventing the progression of internet gaming addiction and reducing symptom severity in at-risk individuals. Studies conducted with adolescent and young adult samples demonstrated that CBT techniques such as cognitive restructuring, behavioral control, and time management contribute significantly to regulating gaming behaviors. It was also reported that CBT, implemented in both individual and group formats, increased treatment adherence and supported the intervention process. Overall, the findings emphasize that CBT is an effective, evidence-based, and applicable psychotherapy approach for the treatment of internet gaming addiction. Although various psychosocial interventions have been examined in the literature, comprehensive, up-to-date systematic reviews specifically focusing on CBT-based interventions remain limited. Therefore, this study aims to contribute to the literature by providing a more holistic evaluation of the role of CBT in the treatment of internet gaming addiction.