1.
Definition and Prevalence of Internet Addiction
Internet addiction is a behavioral addiction characterized by an excessive, uncontrollable use of the
internet that interferes with daily life, causing distress and impairing functionality. It involves compulsive
behaviors where individuals become preoccupied with online activities like gaming, social media, or
browsing to the detriment of their real-world responsibilities, health, and relationships. This condition
has become increasingly prevalent in modern society, affecting individuals across age groups,
particularly adolescents and young adults. Studies estimate that internet addiction rates vary widely but
can affect up to 6-12% of users in certain populations.
Difference from Healthy Internet Usage: Healthy internet usage supports daily life without dominating it,
enhancing productivity, social connection, and learning. In contrast, internet addiction involves
obsessive use, typically marked by excessive time spent online, withdrawal symptoms when offline, and
the need to use it for emotional relief. Healthy users can self-regulate their internet time, while those
with internet addiction struggle to do so.
2. Potential Causes and Risk Factors of Internet Addiction
Several factors can contribute to the development of internet addiction:
Psychological Factors: Individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, social isolation, or low self-esteem
may turn to the internet as a coping mechanism.
Environmental Factors: Lack of parental control, peer influence, and easy access to technology can
facilitate addiction, especially in adolescents.
Genetic and Biological Predispositions: Some individuals have a natural propensity toward addictive
behaviors, influenced by genetics or neurochemical imbalances that make internet use rewarding and
harder to regulate.
Personality Traits: Impulsivity, sensation-seeking, and introversion can make people more prone to
internet addiction.
3. Consequences of Internet Addiction
Internet addiction can have wide-ranging impacts on various areas of an individual’s life:
Physical Health: Excessive internet use often leads to a sedentary lifestyle, resulting in health issues such
as obesity, poor posture, eye strain, sleep disturbances, and an increased risk of metabolic conditions.
Mental Well-being: Internet addiction is linked to higher levels of stress, depression, and anxiety.
Individuals might experience mood swings, social withdrawal, and decreased life satisfaction.
Academic or Occupational Performance: Addiction can interfere with school or work responsibilities, as
individuals prioritize online activities over completing assignments, attending classes, or meeting work
deadlines.
Interpersonal Relationships: Internet addiction often leads to social isolation as individuals become
preoccupied with online interactions at the expense of face-to-face relationships. Family conflicts,
loneliness, and feelings of isolation may worsen over time.
Example and Evidence: A study by Kim et al. (2006) found that high internet usage correlated with
increased depressive symptoms and social anxiety among adolescents, demonstrating the psychological
toll of excessive internet use.
4. Common Signs and Symptoms of Internet Addiction
Symptoms of internet addiction often include:
Preoccupation with online activities or craving for internet usage.
Inability to reduce or stop internet use despite negative consequences.
Loss of interest in offline hobbies or activities.
Deceptive behavior about the time spent online.
Increased time spent online to achieve satisfaction.
Withdrawal symptoms (e.g., irritability, restlessness) when unable to access the internet.
5. Case Discussion and Treatment Modality for Internet Addiction
Case Example: A 19-year-old college student reports excessive use of social media and online games.
Despite a drop in grades and worsening family relations, he continues to spend 10+ hours online daily,
acknowledging an inability to limit his internet usage.
Treatment Approach and Relapse Prevention:
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is effective for addressing maladaptive behaviors by helping
individuals recognize triggers and restructure their thought patterns. The therapist would help the
student understand the reasons behind his internet use and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
Behavioral Interventions: Setting internet use goals, monitoring usage, and gradually reducing online
time are crucial. The student could be encouraged to adopt offline activities to replace internet time,
such as exercise or socializing.
Family Therapy: Involving the family helps to create a supportive home environment, setting
boundaries, and understanding the root causes of internet use as a coping mechanism.
Relapse Prevention: Developing a relapse prevention plan that includes identifying warning signs,
creating an accountability system (e.g., with family or friends), and using a structured schedule for
internet use helps prevent future episodes of addiction.
This multi-faceted approach, combining CBT, family involvement, and behavioral interventions, can be
highly effective in managing internet addiction and sustaining recovery.
