Association between the subclinical level of problematic internet use and habenula volume: a look at mediation effect of neuroticism.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Ongoing debates question the harm of internet use with the evolving technology, as many individuals transition from regular to problematic internet use (PIU). The habenula (Hb), located between the thalamus and the third ventricle, is implicated in various psychiatric disorders. In addition, personality features have been suggested to play a role in the pathophysiology of PIU.

Aims

This study aimed to investigate Hb volumetry in individuals with subclinical PIU and the mediating effect of personality traits on this relationship.

Methods

110 healthy adults in this cross-sectional study underwent structural magnetic resonance imaging. Hb segmentation was performed using a deep learning technique. The Internet Addiction Test (IAT) and the NEO Five-Factor Inven

SUBMITTER: Zakia H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11815417 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature