This overview aims at summarizing studies, which investigated cognitive correlates of gaming disorder and of a problematic use of social networks by using behavioral experimental paradigms and brain imaging techniques.

Based on theoretical models, inhibition/inhibitory control, attentional bias, executive functions, decision-making, and working memory capabilities have been identified as cognitive components, which are assumed to play a crucial role in the development and maintenance of an addictive behavior. A systematic search shows that various studies have already examined the involvement of different cognitive components in both types of potential addictive behaviors. However, the number of studies addressing cognitive correlates of social networks use disorder is very much lower compared with gaming disorder, even if there is a positive trend in terms of new publications in recent years.

Cognitive correlates have been frequently investigated in gaming disorder, as in many other disorders due to substance use or addictive behaviors. Studies on cognitive aspects involved in a problematic social networks use are still rare, but they are needed in order to further show if this phenomenon may also deserve a classification as addictive disorder. Interactions between different cognitive and affective processes are still understudied in both gaming disorder and problematic social networks use.