With the rapid changea occuring in the field of digital technology on a regular basis, screening tools are often inadequate in assessing problematic use. Rather than using a self-report measure, we encourage clinicians to conduct a screening interview which incorporates the following types of questions:
Is it ok if we talk about your digital technology use?
- Walk me through a typical day describing your use of digital media (computer, gaming system, cell phone, etc.).
- Assuming I’m new to using a [computer, smart phone, game, activity, etc.] tell me about your favorite digital activity of choice. [Listen and explore]
- What are the first few things you like to do when you wake up each day? And then?
- What do others say to you about your digital media use?
- What happens for you when you misplace your phone, or the Internet goes down?
- Walk me through a time you lied about your use to others.
- Describe how you would feel if you were prohibited from using (computer, gaming system, cell phone, etc.) for 90 days or more.
- Tell me about a time you tried to quit using and what that experience was like.
These are only a sampling of questions to ask your clients. For more information, please contact our Center for more information.
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