Abstract:
The internet provides entertainment, education, and communication. Any subjectively rewarding activity may, however, become addictive. Constant and obsessive internet use has become a particular source of interest amongst scholars, leading to what is termed Problematic Internet Use (PIU). The problem statement of this study could be described as the gap in research and lack of understanding regarding social workers’ knowledge and skills in addressing or potentially addressing PIU. From the available literature, no research – both locally and internationally - could be identified focusing on the perceptions of social workers on PIU.
The goal of this study was to explore and describe social workers’ perceptions regarding PIU. Interpretivism as a research paradigm underpinned the applied research project operationalised through a qualitative research approach. A case study design, i.e. instrumental case study, was employed. The study population comprised social workers in the employ of treatment centres in the Gauteng Province. Non-probability, specifically purposive sampling, was used to recruit 15 participants for the study – to the point of data saturation. The researcher used semi-structured (email- and face-to-face) interviews with an interview schedule as the method of data collection. Data was analysed according to descriptive and interpretive thematic analysis. Trustworthiness meant considering the credibility, auditability, conformability, and transferability of the study. Ethical considerations such as avoidance of harm, voluntary participation, and informed consent were observed.
Key findings were based on the research question: “What are the perceptions of social workers regarding problematic internet use?” Participants indicated that PIU may be recognised as an addiction; PIU exposure is limited; identifying criteria for PIU should encompass a holistic approach, including sub-types and risk populations; PIU has harmful consequences; social workers have the responsibility to address PIU; and social workers have a need for input and training on PIU interventions and policies both in academia and practice.
Recommendations for the social work profession concerning PIU include practical guidelines for social work education and practice, also the role and responsibilities of treatment centres. Recommendations for future research emphasise the need for South-African based research, holistic interpretation of PIU, and social workers responsibility and aptitude towards addressing it.
KEY WORDS:
Internet
Internet use
Perceptions
Problematic internet use
Social worker
