Against the backdrop of society’s increasing mediatisation and an ever-younger user base, the topic of ‘new electronic media and addictive behaviour’ is giving rise to socio-political debate. There are significant differences in understanding what constitutes ‘normal’ media usage, particularly between generations, leading to intense disputes and conflicts within families as well as in educational institutions. The study focuses on reviewing the scientific findings regarding the extent and consequences of addictive media use, distinguishing between the various forms of online gambling addiction, shopping addiction, sex addiction and social media addiction. Against the backdrop of today’s changing norms and values, the concerns and interests of the stakeholders involved, as well as potential policy responses, are presented.