In the realm of addictions, Internet addiction is a fairly new phenomenon, as Internet access has only been widespread for the past ten to fifteen years. However, this addiction has the potential to develop into an even more serious problem than other addictions like alcohol and drugs because of the prevalence of internet access—nowadays, most people have access at home, school and work; indeed, their jobs and studies may actually require them to spend several hours a day on the Internet.

In an article from the journal CyberPsychology and Behavior, researchers from Michigan State University, Ohio State University and Cleveland State University explain the phenomenon: “Internet addiction…is a form of impulse control disorder ostensibly similar to addictions identified with conventional mass media such as television, but potentially more serious….Excessive internet usage intrudes at work, school and play, changing personal, family and business relationships.” (Song, Larose, Eastin, Lin, 2004) These researchers determined that Internet addiction is caused by the instant gratification factor. People achieve gratification from the Internet in one or more of seven different areas: “Virtual community, information seeking, aesthetic experience, monetary compensation, diversion, personal status, and relationship maintenance.”   (Ibid.) These are all positives in themselves but when a person seeks them out to such an extent that they begin to ignore other areas of their life, it becomes an addiction that needs to be treated like any other addiction.

Read more...