Preventing relapse to information technology addiction through weakening reinforcement: A self-regulation perspective

Information technology addicts often exhibit a high rate of relapse, which reflects the failure of previous recovery approaches. However, research on relapse to information technology addiction has been largely neglected, and few means have been developed to address this issue. To fill this research gap, this study identifies essential factors for preventing relapse to information technology addiction with a self-regulation perspective. A longitudinal online survey is conducted. The results show that mindfulness and self-control contribute to reduced urges, which, in turn, prevent relapse. This study provides useful insights by expanding our understandings of relapse to information technology addiction.