Reducing Problematic Internet Use in Adolescents and Young Adults Using a Smartphone-Based Approach-Avoidance Training (PROTECTapp)

Abstract: Aims: This pilot study aimed to investigate the feasibility and initial efficacy of a smartphone-based approach-avoidance task (AAT)-training in reducing problematic internet use among adolescents and young adults. The intervention targets automatic action tendencies (approach biases) toward internet-related cues to reduce maladaptive usage patterns. Methodology: In a randomized controlled pilot trial with a waitlist control group, 24 participants with elevated levels of problematic internet use (aged 12–31 years) were included. Participants in the intervention group engaged in a 21-day AAT training via the PROTECTapp, while the control group was placed on a waitlist. The primary outcome was the severity of problematic internet use measured by the Compulsive Internet Use Scale (CIUS). Secondary outcomes included symptoms of specific online behavioral addictions (i.e., problematic social media use and problematic gaming) and psychological well-being. Results: The intervention group showed a significant reduction in problematic internet use compared to the control group, with a large between-group effect size ( d = -0.98). A higher proportion of participants in the intervention group achieved reliable improvement on the CIUS. No significant effects were observed for secondary outcomes, including gaming, social media use, or psychological well-being. Conclusions: The results support the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a smartphone-based AAT training in reducing problematic internet use. The findings suggest that AAT-based interventions may represent a promising, low-threshold component within blended treatment approaches for problematic internet use. Further research in larger, stratified samples and with extended follow-up periods is warranted.