Unpacking digital addictiions thorugh the lens of neuroscience

“Digital” addiction is a debated concept. Much of the research carried out in this field relies on traditional self-report methods and, to a minor extent, on computer-based experimental research. In this chapter, we aim to go beyond the above-mentioned methods and summarize the neurobiological risk factors that have been explored in the context of problematic digital media usages, including (i) brain correlates, (ii) genetics, (iii) epigenetic influences, and (iv) hormones. Altogether, neurobiological factors can give a more comprehensive overview of the pathogenesis of problematic usage of digital media, such as Internet gaming disorder, Internet addiction, problematic social media use, and problematic smartphone use.