Josh was 12 when his parents bought him a computer for his room, thinking it would be useful now that Josh was in junior high school. He immediately took to internet and soon discovered email and chat rooms. His parents watched over his shoulder for the first few weeks and discussed the need to be cautious with personal information and made sure that Josh was steering clear of pornographic and violent websites. As they became comfortable with Joshs behavior on the internet, they no longer watched over him while he chatted with online friends and played online games.

Problems soon arose, however. Josh began to spend most of his time in his bedroom with the computer, and he was moody when he was forced to spend time with his family. His grades dropped from As and Bs to Cs and Ds. He was irritable when he was away from his computer and often stayed online into the early mornings. When his alarmed parents removed the computer from Joshs room, he became very hostile and threatened to harm himself. Joshs parents quickly sought counseling for internet addiction.

What is Internet Addiction?

Internet Addiction is a growing concern in the Information Age. Internet access is a vital part of the modern world and an important tool in the education of our children. It is present in schools, homes and even shopping malls. Mastering the use of the internet is likely to be an important skill for those entering the job markets of the future. In addition, it is a highly entertaining and informative medium. However, these very qualities also make it an enticing escape for many users. The internet offers 24-hour access to a world of constant stimulation and alluring anonymity. An internet user can be anyone he or she wants to be in an online chat room, or play thrilling and challenging games against other players from all corners of the globe. With the click of a mouse, one can enter a different world where the problems of the real world are no longer present, and all the things one wishes he or she could be or experience are possible.

Like addiction to drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, or caffeine, internet addiction is marked by symptoms of increasing tolerance, withdrawal, mood changes, and interruption of social relationships. Children and adolescents who have become addicted to the internet will require increasing amounts of time online in order to feel satisfied. When they do not have access to the internet, they may have symptoms of withdrawal, which include anxiety, depression, irritability, trembling hands, restlessness and obsessive thinking or fantasizing about the internet. While online they may feel uninhibited and experience an increased sense of intimacy. Relationships in the real world may be neglected as those in the virtual world increase in importance. Academic performance is likely to suffer.

The term "internet addiction" actually refers to a broad range of behaviors. Researchers in the field have identified five different types of internet addiction:

Net-Gaming - Net-gaming encompasses a variety of different internet activities. Individuals may participate in online games or Multi-User Dungeon Games (often called MUDs), visit virtual casinos, or become obsessed with e-auctions, online trading or online shopping. This type of addiction can be especially expensive as these individuals may rack up charges on a parents charge card or internet bill.

Cyber-Relational Addiction - Online relationships in chat rooms become more important than relationships with family and non-internet friends. In addition to spending time chatting online with these new acquaintances, long-distance charges may accumulate as the conversations begin to enter the non-virtual (real) world. Concerns that the individual may attempt to meet an online acquaintance in person should be taken seriously, as there is no way of knowing who someone met over the internet really is.

Information Overload - The amount of data available on the internet is virtually unlimited. Some individuals may become obsessed with tracking down certain types of information and organizing it. Surfing the web and conducting extensive searches of online data bases may become an all-consuming activity, reaching obsessive-compulsive levels.

Computer Addiction - While not a true internet addiction, computer addiction shares a lot of the same qualities. Computer games that can be played without access to the internet can also become addictive to some individuals. This may also happen with games played on such platforms as Sega and Play Station.

Cybersexual Addiction - Pornography is easily obtainable on the internet. While a variety of parental control software has been designed to limit the types of internet sites to which children can have access, many pornographic sites are designing ways around this software as quickly as the newest controls are introduced. A determined internet user may get access to pornographic websites despite the use of the most sophisticated parental control software. Adolescents who have a cybersexual addiction typically spend time viewing, downloading or trading online pornography. They may also participate in adult fantasy and/or role-play chat rooms, typically with members much older than themselves. These kids may even be enticed to send pornographic pictures or videos of themselves to other online users.

Pornography on the Internet

Internet access to pornography is a great concern to many parents, even if their sons or daughters do not use the internet excessively. An innocent search conducted in order to complete a school assignment can lead to unexpected encounters with a number of different pornographic sites. Bulk emails from sites peddling everything from sex toys to live video feeds of sexual acts can flood a childs email box. A number of steps can be taken to limit these chance encounters. Parental control software such as CyberPatrol or Net Nanny can be installed that will block the majority of pornographic websites. See http://web.chapel1.com/products/parental_control.htm for a listing of current software titles. Most email programs have the ability to engage filters or blocks to eliminate emails from various types of senders. You should review the documentation that came with your email software or contact your internet service provider for more information. As mentioned earlier, creators of a number of pornographic sites have developed ways to get around these various attempts to restrict access to their sites. However, unless an internet user is actively trying to access these sites, parental control software and email blocks or filters will greatly reduce the odds of a child or adolescent viewing pornographic material while using the internet.

For parents concerned that their son or daughter may be circumventing the control software installed on their home computer, new computer programs like Spector http://www.spectorsoft.com/default.asp?refer=82 are being released all the time that monitor computer activity without the knowledge of the user. These programs provide detailed information about which sites are being visited and the conversations being held in chat rooms. A word of caution, however: using software such as this is akin to installing a video surveillance camera in your sons or daughters room, taping his or her phone conversations, or snooping through a diary. You may want to consider discussing with your child your intention to monitor their computer activity; otherwise, you may violate his or her sense of privacy and break the fragile bond of trust that exists between parents and children. It may be more effective to have an honest and open conversation with your son or daughter about your concerns and fears. For a discussion of the pros and cons of spying on your child see "Should You Spy on Your Teen?" by Elaine Moyle http://www.canoe.ca/LifewiseFamilyTuesday/spy.html.

Who is Likely to Develop an Internet Addiction?

Internet addiction is not limited just to introverted "computer-techies." Males and females from all walks of life can and do become addicted to online relationships, gaming, information gathering and sexual experiences. Although there is no single type of person who is most prone to developing an internet addiction, people who lack strong connections with others may be especially likely to seeking refuge in online relationships. The internet can also provide a welcome escape for individuals who already suffer from a variety of psychological difficulties including anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Additionally, those who have struggled with other types of addiction may more easily become obsessed with the internet. Parents would be wise to watch for signs of obsessive internet use in all children who have access to a computer and a modem.
Preventing and Treating Internet Addiction

Using the internet can be an enjoyable and educational experience, but it is wise to agree on a few ground rules before allowing a child or adolescent access to the online world. You may want to review the following guidelines with your son or daughter before allowing him or her to go online. While these guidelines alone will not prevent a child from developing an unhealthy obsession with the internet, they will help ensure a safer internet experience.

In addition to ensuring agreement on the safety guidelines, parents should monitor the amount of time their child spends on the internet and watch for any of the warning signs of internet addiction listed at the beginning of this article. "Warning Signs of Internet Addiction" If a child is showing any of these signs, a plan to address the problem should be worked out. Quitting internet usage completely may not be necessary, or even advisable. However, a structured plan that gradually reduces internet usage to a more reasonable amount may be helpful. For example, a child using the internet 6 to 8 hours a day may gradually reduce usage to 1 hour. External reminders like a timer and a visible copy of the agreed-upon schedule may help the internet user keep track of time and more easily adhere to the new routine. If the childs computer is currently located in his or her bedroom, or an area of the home that is isolated, it may be helpful to move the computer into a kitchen, dining area, or other room in the home that is more open and visible. It may also be helpful to come up with a list of alternative activities that the individual can engage in when not online. Frequently, internet usage has replaced participation in previously enjoyable hobbies and past-times.

Excessive internet usage can also be masking more difficult problems that your child is facing, or difficulties in the family. It may be necessary to seek outside help for a child with internet addiction. Family therapy may be beneficial. Internet support groups also exist in some communities. You can ask your childs school counselor or a local community mental health agency to provide you with local contacts. You may also find support from a local drug and alcohol treatment center. While they may not have experience in treating internet addiction, they can provide you with valuable information on addictions in general. Ironically, there is also counseling for internet addiction to be found online at The Center of On-Line Addiction http://www.netaddiction.com.

Internet Safety Guidelines:
Never reveal your name, address, telephone number, or any other identifying information to anyone online.
Do not send pictures of yourself over the internet or through the mail to an online acquaintance.
Do not make phone calls to people that you meet online.
Do not arrange to meet in person with anyone that you meet online.
Remember that not everyone you meet online is necessarily telling the truth about themselves - or about anything else, for that matter.
Always tell a parent or teacher if online postings are rude, nasty, suggestive, or make you feel uncomfortable in any way.
Dont pretend to be someone you are not while chatting with others online.
Never order anything online, or sign up for free offers, without your parents permission.
Dont reveal your password to anyone except your parents.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT FOR ALL OF US.

Last edited: Tuesday, March 28, 2006 at 10:18:09 PM

I couldn't read it all. Could you summize please. I have attention deficit disorder which was brought on by my internet addiction.

Read that article on Josh.. He did kill himself in the end.

^^ GET OFF THE INTERNET IT WILL MAKE YOU STUPID.

OOPS I'M SORRY, NOTHING MORE CAN BE DONE FOR YOU SIR! 8o ;)

Last edited: Tuesday, March 28, 2006 at 10:36:11 PM

LOL
Love the new name nappy. ;)

Very interesting subject. I would be surprised if I wasnt already addicted, but then again my job is an internet one (day trader). I will try to wean my internet/computer usage, but I haven't been having any of these symptoms; no D.T. Or anything (hehe) I still do lotsa social crap. Who knows, maybe im sober. Maybe I can take it 8o

I can leave my computer anytime I want...ish...kinda...sorta...maybe...hmm... XD

I couldn't read it all either. I just got bored out. I've heard it all way to many times.

Blah Blah Blah to much time doing anyone one thing is bad. Repetative stress disorder, addiction, stupidity, and depression.

It has been established that human being need a certain level of routine to feel comfortable but we are poorly adapted to doing the same thing over and over.

Get some variety in your life.

I'm gonna go fly a kite.

Lol read it all......quite an artical....most of the time I spend my time on the interent doing hw and talkin with friends so its all good...

Hey Mr. Offensive - hook a brotha up with some symbol action on my name...I'll let you score a goal ;)

<------ The Best ^ BS

http://marko.digiterica.com/KBC_Web/ThinkTanks%20Photo%20Album/ThinkTanks%20Photo%20Album.html

;)

Does ThinkTanks Convention ring a bell?

Last edited: Wednesday, March 29, 2006 at 12:56:19 AM

And yet...nothing stupid has happened to any of us...that in itself puts this community in the "amazing" category.

I'm addicted and I love it. I don't want to go outside and only do to go to work and church. I sneak my laptop inside church and that can explain my laggy condidtions on t tanks Sunday mornings. I only wish I did not need to sleep., aahhh how sweet that would be. 8 more hours of internet and think tanks.... NOT XD

For real it does acutally get old. I find I burn my self out and just need to walk away from the computer. It does however beat the yardwork and repair work around the house but I know when I'm on the computer too much, and if I don't my wife reminds me.

^ LOL CB - you know that I am addicted and not ashamed to say so, damm sleep & business always takes up valuable internet & TT time. :P

The internet is such a great tool. Yet it can be addictive. But you learn so much from it. There are kids that dont care about school and interent comes first and then there is a large bunch of people that know School comes first!

COMP,

You're aware that all of those people were adults, not one was even under 25. I'd say they are certainly able to take care of tyhemselves. My point regarding this thread is how this addication can shape young people.

I've been using computers for 25 years and on the net almost as long. I'm also 40. There's a vast difference in what I may do as an adult, what I would let my 6 year old do, a 15 year old do, and a 22 year old do.

look..here

^ At the TT convention. READ the whole post. :)

Yeah when I first met Nappy at the Convention I was like "OMG, I'm a dead man!" XD

Hey, we made it through breakfast only needing police assistance 2X!

I thought it went very well.

Everyone knows the internet comes first! AAAUUGHH!!! INTERNET!!! MUST.... GET... ON..... MY.... COMPUTER!!!!

School comes last if it's not life's school XD

You know you're addicted when:

* Tech Support calls "You" for help.
* Someone at work tells you a joke and you say LOL
* When someone says "What did you say?" you reply "Scroll up!"
* You have to get a second phone line just so you can call Domino's
* You have to be pried from your computer with the Jaws-of-Life
* You have a vanity car tag with your screen name on it
* You no longer type with proper punctuation, capitalization, or complete sentences.
* You begin to say heh heh heh instead of laughing
* You know more about your online friends daily routines than you do your own family's.
* You lie to others about your time online and when they complain
* You keep begging your friends to get an account so "we can hang out"
* You meet people from the Internet in public and have no idea what their real name is, so you call them by their screen name
* That your phone was busy you claim it was off the hook
* You have an identity crisis if someone else is using an s/n close to your own
* You would rather tell people your bloodshot eyes are from partying too much instead of the truth (all night online)
* You marry your cyber boyfriend and you both sit at your own computers and chat to each other every night from across the room
* You type messages to people while you are on the phone with them at the same time
* You won't work at a job that doesn't have a modem involved
* You sign on and immediately get 10 messages from people who have you on their buddy lists
* You look at an annoying person off-line and wish you had your ignore button handy
* You have withdrawals if you are away from the puter for more than a few hours
* You use Internet lingo in everyday life (if you still have one...hehehe)
* Your buddy list has over 100 people on it
* You wake up in the morning and the first thing you do is get on-line before you have your first cup of coffee
* You wait 6 hours online for a certain "special" person to sign on
* You don't know where the time has gone
* You end sentences with three (or more) periods while writing letters in pen/pencil.
* Your relationship online has gone farther than any real one you have had
* You get up at 2am to go the bathroom but go turn on your computer instead
* You don't even notice anymore when someone has a typo
* When you enter a room and 23 people greet you with {{{Hugs}}} or ***Kisses***
* You stop typing whole words and use things like ppl, dunno and lemme
* Your voicemail/answering machine message is "BRB, leave your s/n and I will TTYL"
* You type faster than you think
* Being called a newbie is a *MAJOR* insult
* You are on the phone for a min. And need to do something else you say "BRB" or "BBL"
* You spend at least 30 minutes making sure you say good-bye to everyone in a chat room