Problematic Internet Use and Personality Traits: Results in Working Age Adults

Abstract

Introduction

Problematic Internet use has become a growing problem worldwide; several factors, including personality, play an essential role in understanding this disorder. The Big Five personality traits and their association with problematic Internet use were examined in a large and diverse population.

Methods

A survey was applied to a total of 1,109 adults of working age. Each answered the Big Five Inventory and the Internet Addiction Test.

Results

Problematic Internet use was found in 10.6% of them (n = 112). The personality traits extraversion and openness to experience were significantly associated with those with the disorder. With adjustment models, a positive association was found between these traits and being single and higher education.

Conclusions

This study represents the largest of its kind in the Spanish-speaking population, highlighting the importance of recognising the factors involved in problematic Internet use.