Predicting the role of Biological Vulnerabilities on Internet Addiction: Brain-Behavioral Systems and Gender

Background and Individuals treat the Internet phenomenon differently based on their personalities. Also، personality can predispose individuals for some psychological disorders. Some psychologists state that personality comes from nervous system functions، therefore، this study investigated the personality characteristics caused by brain-behavioral systems and gender on Internet addiction. This casual-comparison research was performed in 225 people selected through cluster sampling from Internet cafes، libraries and gyms’ clients in Isfahan. The data was collected using Young’s Internet addiction scale and Gray-Wilson Personality Questionnaire. Multivariate Variance Analysis (MANOVA) showed significant differences in brain-behavioral systems of addicted and non-addicted groups. Paired-test showed that these differences were due to differences in passive avoidance، and fight and flight subscales. Independent sample t-test also showed significant differences in Internet addiction between male and female. Moreover، multiple regression analysis confirmed the predicting role of passive avoidance and gender in Internet addiction. Behavioral inhibition system sensitivity could influence the risk factors of internet addiction. This is probably caused by enjoying the nature of Internet activities and delay in the negative outcomes at the same time. These are pleasant for individuals with high behavioral inhibition system sensitivity. Furthermore، males are more prone to Internet addiction; that is due to more tendencies to develop social relations and gaining less family support than females.