Guidelines on the Treatment of Social Networking Sites Use Disorder

Aim: Social Networking Sites Use Disorder (SNSUD) has been discussed to represent a subtype of internet use disorders. While there is sound evidence for their prevalence in the German general population, patients seeking treatment for this specific disorder are still under-represented in the specific health care system. Yet, individuals meeting diagnostic criteria for SNSUD, display similar psychosocial problems and psychopathological symptoms as, for instance known from Gaming Disorder. Thus, initial guidelines on its treatment should be derived from the current state of research. Methods: A systematic search was carried out in different databases (MEDLINE, PUBMED and WEB OF SCIENCE) focusing on the psychotherapeutic treatment of adults and adolescents according to pre-defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: Cognitive-behavioral treatment strategies are recommended as the first choice for intervention. Abstinence related strategies (full or partial abstinence) seem to have additional helpful effects. Specific comorbid disorders, particularly depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, and borderline-personality disorder have to be taken into account. Discussion: While the body of literature points to some effective treatment strategies, only few clinical studies are available at present. Therefore, more detailed clinical research is needed to enable identifying disorder-specific treatment approaches. Sound clinical trials, including randomized controlled studies are missing and should be carried out in early future.