What is Internet addiction?

According to Wikipedia, Internet addiction is excessive computer use that interferes with daily life.

People who suffer from Internet addiction display a number of symptoms:

• A feeling of well-being and euphoria while at the computer
• An inability to stop using the computer
• A need to spend an increasing amount of time on the computer
• A lack of interest in activities with family or friends
• Irritability or an empty feeling when not online
• Irregular eating habits
• Problems at school or at work

Are you an Internet addict? Take the Internet stress survey to find out.

What are the dangers of Internet addiction?

Children and teens who spend too much time on the Internet can easily become hooked on online games, online porn, chat rooms, or social networking sites. And shy or unpopular kids are often tempted to create new identities for themselves in these online communities. It’s a way for them to create a world where they’re popular, well-liked, and respected by the other kids to make up for what they feel is lacking in their own lives.

Though they might be participating in online games with other kids, which seems sociable enough, young introverts risk spending too much time online and becoming even more cut off from kids their own age.

Young people who develop an Internet addiction don’t just become disconnected from reality – they lose interest in other activities, can become aggressive or closed in on themselves, and might neglect their health and experience problems at school.

How to beat Internet addiction?

The best way to break the habit is to be self-disciplined and have a healthy attitude towards Internet use. A good way to do this is to develop habits and behaviour that are the opposite of the habits that create the addiction in the first place. Reading, getting exercise or relaxing away from the computer are some good alternatives. Alarms or parental control software are other ways to manage the time spent on online activities. Setting realistic goals is a good way to break bad Internet habits.

If your child is shy or uncomfortable around their peers, encourage them to get involved in activities with kids who have similar interests.

But whatever you do, don’t ban the Internet altogether! It’s a vital part of the social life of most teenagers. A better idea is to set up an online code of conduct that will set out what they are and aren’t allowed to do online. Another idea is to set up the family computer in a high-traffic area so your teen isn’t surfing the Web alone.

If you need help, don’t be shy to talk to a psychologist who can help you get to the heart of the problem. Internet addiction might be masking other problems, such as depression, anger, or low self-esteem.