Internet addiction

One of the most common non-substance addictions is represented by Internet addiction, a dependency in which subjects develop an emotional attachment to on-line friends and activities they create on their computer screens. Internet addiction results in personal, family, academic, financial and occupational problems that are characteristic of other addictions. Impairment of real life relationships are disrupted as a result of excessive use of the internet. Internet addicts spend more time in solitary seclusion and spend less time with real people in their lives, using the chat rooms or so called "virtual communities".

These communities allow a person the means to escape from reality and seek out means to fulfill unmet emotional and psychological needs, which are more intimate and less threatening than real life relationships, but still achiving false feelings. Arguments may result due to the volume of time spent online. Internet addicts may attempt to conceal the amount of time spent on-line, which results in distrust and the disturbance of quality in once stable relationships.

Some persons suffering from Internet addiction may also create on-line personalities where they are able to alter their identities and pretend to be someone other than themselves, someone usually much better. The highest risk in designing a secret life is more keen to develop in those who suffer from low self esteem, feelings of inadequacy and fear of disapproval from others. Such negative self concepts lead to clinical problems of depression and anxiety, as well as the impossibility to get close to a real person.

Signs of Internet Addiction:

Preoccupation with the Internet (thoughts about previous on-line activity or anticipation of the next on-line session);

Use of the Internet in increasing amounts of time in order to achieve satisfaction;

Repeated, unsuccessful efforts to control, cut back, or stop Internet use;

Feelings of restlessness, moodiness, depression or irritability when attempting to cut down use of the Internet;

On-line longer than originally intended;

Jeopardized or risked loss of significant relationships, job, educational or career opportunities because of Internet use;

Lies to family members, therapist, or others to conceal the extent of involvement with the Internet;

Use of the Internet as a way to escape from problems or to relieve a dysphoric mood. (feelings of hopelessness, guilt, anxiety, depression.).

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Internet addiction

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