How Does Internet Addiction Occur?
Internet addicts have a compulsive desire to access the Internet constantly, coupled with symptoms of withdrawal and agitation when they are forced to be offline. In some cases, Internet addicts may experience negative effects in their daily lives and relationships.
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Theories
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Scientists do not have a definitive answer as to how or why Internet addiction occurs. One theory is that certain people become addicted to the social aspects of the Internet because they find online relationships less threatening or more manageable. Another is that Internet addiction is an escape mechanism for people with financial stresses or relationship problems. Some clinicians think Internet addicts experience a "high" similar to gambling.
Research
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According to ChooseHelp.com, many experts believe that neurological underpinnings will emerge as research into Internet addiction continues, and that researchers will find small but significant alterations in the brains of Internet addicts.
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Warnings
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Internet addiction is most likely to occur in people who are already prone to addictive behaviors. People with existing mental illnesses or disorders --- such as depression or anxiety --- may also have a higher susceptibility to Internet addiction.
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References
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