Internet, Mobile Device, Social Media Use, and Gaming Behavior During COVID-19: A Systematic Review of Observational Studies

Abstract

This systematic review aimed to assess the pattern and factors associated with internet, mobile device, social media use, and gaming behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic. Increased internet, smartphone, social media use as well as online gaming were noted. Younger age group, anxiety, depressive symptoms, and stress were associated with an increase in internet, smartphone, and social media use. The majority of studies were of poor quality. These conclusions highlight the need to conduct research with robust methodology and implement public health initiatives which address those at greater risk to alleviate pathological use. [ FROM AUTHOR] Copyright of Addicta: The Turkish Journal on Addictions is the property of Turkish Green Crescent Society and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full . (Copyright applies to all s.)