Problematic use of technology amongst LGBTQ people

Abstract

The present paper aims at discussing the vulnerabilitiesamongst the LGBTQ community in comparison to thegeneral population. LGBTQ people amount to a significantpart of our society, approximately 11%, and are dealingwith specific mental health issues and a significantly higherburden than that of the general population. Like otheraddictive disorders (SUDs), people with the LGBTQcommunity are also at a high risk of Internet addiction andother related cyber-psychiatric conditions. Upcomingresearch has identified the problematic use of the internetamongst sexual minorities, which has become a concernregarding their habit-forming nature and potential abuse.Technology today controls every aspect of our lives,creating stumbling blocks in various domains. It hasbecome crucial to address behavioral addiction viaincreasing awareness about its risk and mindful use oftechnology; early identification of the problem and itsmanagement. This paper outlines the definition of internetaddiction and its related consequences along with socialmedia addiction, dating applications, and sexual addictionamong the LGBTQ community. It also briefly discusses thecurrent scenario of the COVID-19 pandemic and itsimpact on these addictive behaviors amongst sexualminorities.