The relation between communicative internet usage and the quality of the social adaptation in men with mental disorders

Abstract

Introduction

The internet is now widely used by people with mental disorders, and it is important to understand whether the internet use can affect the mental state of such people.

Objectives

The aim of the study was to assess the relation between the internet usage for communication and the quality of the social adaptation in men with mental disorders.

Methods

82 male patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorder (F20) were involved into the study (mean age 22±4.3). Methods: SCL-90R, “social circle” inventory (Susan L., Phillips), semi-structured interview of “internet usage” (“communicative internet usage” consists of communication in on-line games, use of the internet social networks for communication, use the internet to find new friends, maintaining relationships with relatives, friends, colleagues.

Results

Two groups of patients were considered: those who use internet for communicative purposes (N=61) and those who do not (N=21).According to the analysis (Mann-Witney U-test, hereinafter significance level *p<0.05), those who use the internet for communication have lower levels of psychotic symptoms (PSY) (U=446*), lower levels of “depression” (U=453*). Those who use the internet for communication have more people in social circle to spend free time (U=910,5*), having the same occupation (U=860*), having the same interests (U=867,5*) and sharing the same values (U=873*).They have more friends (U=804*), peers (U=814*), more women among friends (U=793*), more people to provide instrumental support (U=761,5*).

Conclusions

Patients, who use the internet for communications, have a lower levels of psychopathological symptoms and higher quality of social adaptation. This indicates a possible potential of the internet for mental health rehabilitation.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.