The relationship between attachment and problematic internet use: A multilevel meta-analysis

Abstract

Attachment theory and the model of compensatory Internet use provide a comprehensive framework for understanding the relationship between attachment and problematic Internet use. Despite numerous studies on this topic, the findings have been inconsistent. To address this gap, we conducted a multilevel meta-analysis and explored the associations between various attachment orientations and types of problematic Internet use. A systematic database search identified 167 studies published prior to March 2024, including 173 samples comprising 516 effect sizes. The results revealed a negative correlation between attachment security and problematic Internet use (r = −.202). Conversely, attachment anxiety and avoidance exhibited positive correlations with problematic Internet addiction. Specifically, attachment anxiety demonstrated a medium to large positive correlation with problematic Internet addiction (r = .288), while attachment avoidance exhibited a relatively small positive correlation (r = .123). Moreover, we identified several moderating variables, including types of problematic Internet use, measurements of attachment, attachment figure, culture, participant age and gender that influenced the relationship between attachment and problematic Internet use. These findings provide empirical support for the close links between attachment and problematic Internet use. The implications for future research and clinical practice are discussed.