The Significance of Studying Internet Addiction

Internet addiction disorder (IAD) is still a fairly new disorder that mental health professionals are studying. Excessive Internet use is a problem that can have serious repercussions in both the user and those around him.

Considerations

Internet addiction disorder may be a compulsive behavior, similar to what happens when a gambler or alcoholic cannot stop indulging.

Family

When a person is addicted to the Internet, it could have a negative effect on the family unit. Marriages can break up because one spouse spends too much time in front of the computer, and children may be neglected, which could affect their long term social development.

Rehabilitation

It is important to study Internet addiction so that more support groups and addiction centers, like the ReSTART center in Redmond, Washington, can be established.

Texting

The irresistible urge to text or send emails on a mobile phone is considered to be a form of Internet addiction. Because texting while driving increases accident risk, research on this problem is very important.

Considerations

The addictive activities that frequent Internet users participate in while on the computer, such as online gambling, is another reason why an examination of Internet addiction is necessary.

References

• Psych Central; Internet Addiction Guide; John M. Grohol, Psy.D.; Apr. 16, 2005
• Scientific American; Internet Addiction?; Sept. 29, 2009
• The News Star; New Internet Addiction Center Opens in US; AP; Oct. 5, 2009

Resources

• USA Today; Stop Text Messaging, Drivers Urged; Laura Bruno; 6/12/2007