The qualitative data gathered were then subjected to content analysis to identify the range of characteristics, behaviors and attitudes found. A total of 312 surveys were collected with 259 valid geographically dispersed profiles from Dependents. Results from the 16PF are listed in Table 1. Analysis of means and standard deviations show Dependents to rank high in terms of being self-reliant, a strong preference for solitary activities, and tend to restrict their social outlets. Dependents were abstract thinkers who appear less conforming to social convention and more emotionally reactive towards others.
Results also show that Dependents tended to be sensitive, vigilant, and private individuals.
There are several limitations involved in this study which must first be addressed. Therefore, the generalizability of results must be interrupted with caution and continued research should include larger sample sizes to yield more accurate results. However, this preliminary analysis yields initial data which can be utilized to draw several hypotheses to use in further investigations. On-line users who tend to lead a more solitary and socially inactive lifestyle may be at greater risk for pathological Internet use. Thus, it is equally as likely that those who suffer from Internet addiction do not experience the same feelings of alienation others feel when spending long periods of time sitting alone.