Efficacy of a mobile-based approach-avoidance task training (PROTECTapp) for problematic usage of the internet in young adults: A randomized controlled trial

Huth, Daniel and Brand, Sebastian and Lindenberg, Katajun (2026) Efficacy of a mobile-based approach-avoidance task training (PROTECTapp) for problematic usage of the internet in young adults: A randomized controlled trial. JOURNAL OF BEHAVIORAL ADDICTIONS, 15 (2). pp. 812-823. ISSN 2062-5871

Preview

Text 2006-article-p812.pdf - Published Version Available under License Creative Commons Attribution. Download (792kB) | Preview

Abstract

Background and aims Problematic usage of the internet (PUI) has been linked to impaired mental health and academic functioning in young adults. This randomized controlled trial evaluated the efficacy of a 3-week mobile-based approach–avoidance task (AAT) training (PROTECTapp) for reducing PUI in university students. Methods Ninety-two participants (Mage = 22.00 years, 69.6% women) with elevated levels of PUI were randomized to the PROTECTapp intervention (n = 45) or a waitlist control group (n = 47). Primary outcomes were PUI severity and internet-related craving. Secondary outcomes included motivation to change, psychopathological symptoms and academic functioning. Participants were assessed at baseline and postintervention; the intervention group completed additional 3- and 12-week follow-ups. Results Intention-to-treat analyses indicated greater reductions in PUI following the PROTECTapp intervention compared to the waitlist (p = .003; d = −0.80, 95% CI [−1.23, −0.38]). No significant effects emerged for craving or broader psychological outcomes (ps > .05), though favorable effects were observed on motivation to change (ambivalence: p = .020; d = −0.24, 95% CI [−0.65, 0.17]; taking steps: p = .002; d = 0.45 [0.04, 0.87]). Satisfaction with the intervention was moderate (M = 18.32 of 32), and participants completed on average 35.52 training sessions. Adverse events were reported infrequent (7.1%). Discussion and Conclusions PROTECTapp is a promising mobile-based intervention to reduce PUI and enhance motivation to change in young adults. Its brevity, scalability, and safety profile highlight its potential as a low-threshold preventive or adjunctive intervention for young individuals at-risk.

Actions (login required)

Edit Item