Internet Addiction Becomes a Threat

The Internet has not been officially defined as a true addiction, but it is known that a growing number of people have developed an obsession for some online activities and find it very hard, if not impossible, to reduce the amount of time they spend online. Dr. Diana M. Wieland, who treats patients with computer addiction, warns that Internet addiction is a real threat.

It is not only that people get addicted to the Internet experience, but it is that cyberspace enables people to practice and nurse addictive behaviors. Such cyberspace contacts may result in cyber disorders such as virtual relationships that evolve into online marital infidelity or online sexually compulsive behaviors," she writes. "Obsession with and craving time on the computer results in neglect of real-life personal relationships to the point of divorce," Wieland says.

Internet addiction is easy to recognize. Symptoms include a general disregard for health and appearance, a person might suffer from sleep deprivation due to spending too much time online. Decreased physical activity and social interactions are also severe implications of online addiction. "Denial is strong in Internet addicts who claim they cannot be addicted to a machine," Wieland notes. The "one more minute" response to being asked to go offline is common and is similar to an alcoholic who says they will quit drinking after "one more drink."

                                 

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