Internet addiction is a growing epidemic all around the world. According to techaddiction.com, 9-15 million people in the U.S. use the internet every day. This rate is increasing by 25% every 3 months. Internet addiction is most common in adolescent boys and has been linked to ADHD. The overwhelming majority of counselors agree that internet addiction disorder is a very real disorder. In addition to the psychological, physiological, social, and mental health problems associated with Internet Addiction, children and teenagers who spend an excessive amount of time online are not exercising their minds and bodies at such an important time in their lives, when they should be engaging in sports and other physical activities with their peers.
image courtesy: businessnewsdaily.com
Symptoms of Internet Addiction Include:
• Failed attempts to control behavior
• Heightened sense of euphoria while involved in computer and Internet activities
• Neglecting friends and family
• Neglecting sleep to stay online
• Being dishonest with others
• Feeling guilty, ashamed, anxious, or depressed as a result of online behavior
• Physical changes such as weight gain or loss, backaches, headaches, carpal tunnel syndrome
• Withdrawing from other pleasurable activities
[Resources: Safetyweb.com, netaddiction.com, techaddiction.com]
Ashley Rulick 9/19/12
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