internet addiction essay 800 words

Essay on Internet Addiction

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100 Words Essay on Internet Addiction

Introduction.

Internet addiction is a growing problem globally. It refers to excessive use of the internet, leading to negative impacts on a person’s life.

The main cause of internet addiction is the desire for online social interaction and entertainment. Online games, social media, and websites can be very engaging.

Internet addiction can lead to poor academic performance, lack of social skills, and health issues like eye strain and obesity due to physical inactivity.

It’s important to balance internet usage with other activities. Parents and teachers can help by setting limits and promoting healthy habits.

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Paragraph on Internet Addiction

250 Words Essay on Internet Addiction

The advent of the internet has revolutionized human existence, providing limitless opportunities for learning, communication, and entertainment. However, this unprecedented access to information and connectivity has birthed a new form of dependency – internet addiction.

Understanding Internet Addiction

Internet addiction, also known as compulsive internet use, is characterized by excessive or poorly controlled preoccupations, urges, or behaviors regarding computer use and internet access. It is a psychological disorder that can lead to severe stress, anxiety, and a variety of other mental health problems.

Causes and Effects

The causes of internet addiction are multifaceted, ranging from the need for social interaction, escapism, or the thrill of exploring virtual realities. The effects, however, can be detrimental, leading to academic failure, job loss, and the breakdown of personal relationships.

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention is always better than cure. Encouraging healthy internet usage habits, promoting physical activities, and fostering real-life social interactions can help prevent this addiction. However, once addicted, professional help may be necessary. Cognitive-behavioral therapy has proven effective in treating internet addiction by helping individuals to identify and change patterns of thought that lead to compulsive behaviors.

In conclusion, while the internet has undoubtedly brought about vast benefits, it has also introduced new challenges. Internet addiction is a growing concern that requires our attention. By understanding its causes and effects, we can develop strategies to prevent and treat this modern-day affliction.

500 Words Essay on Internet Addiction

Internet addiction, also known as compulsive internet use, has emerged as a significant issue in the digital age. It is a psychological condition that involves excessive use of the internet, resulting in negative impacts on an individual’s life.

Internet addiction is characterized by an individual’s inability to control their use of the internet, which eventually interferes with their daily life, work, and relationships. It is not merely about the amount of time spent online but the obsession with internet activities to the point where it affects mental and physical health, personal relationships, and productivity.

Causes and Symptoms

The causes of internet addiction can be multifaceted. It can be a symptom of other underlying mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and stress disorders. The anonymity, ease of access, and perceived environment of acceptance and escape the internet offers can also contribute to its addictive potential. Symptoms may include preoccupation with the internet, inability to control online use, neglect of personal life, and emotional changes such as restlessness or irritability when internet use is limited.

Impacts of Internet Addiction

Internet addiction can have severe impacts. It can lead to a sedentary lifestyle, which can result in obesity, cardiovascular issues, and other health problems. It can also lead to sleep disorders due to late-night internet use. From a psychological perspective, it can increase feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety. It can also lead to academic or job failures due to a lack of concentration and reduced productivity.

Preventing internet addiction involves promoting healthy internet use. This can be achieved by setting time limits, taking regular breaks, and promoting a balanced lifestyle with physical activities and offline social interactions. Treatment for those already addicted often involves cognitive-behavioral therapy, which helps individuals identify problematic behaviors and develop coping strategies. In severe cases, medication may also be used under professional supervision.

In conclusion, internet addiction is a growing concern that requires attention. As we continue to embrace digital technology, it is crucial to promote healthy internet use and provide help for those struggling with addiction. It’s a call to action for researchers, mental health professionals, and society as a whole to understand and address this modern-day issue effectively.

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How to Know If You Have an Internet Addiction and What to Do About It

Emily is a board-certified science editor who has worked with top digital publishing brands like Voices for Biodiversity, Study.com, GoodTherapy, Vox, and Verywell.

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Top 5 Things to Know

Internet Addiction in Kids

What to Do If You're Addicted

Internet addiction is a behavioral addiction in which a person becomes dependent on the Internet or other online devices as a maladaptive way of coping with life's stresses.

Internet addiction has and is becoming widely recognized and acknowledged. So much so that in 2020, the World Health Organization formally recognized addiction to digital technology as a worldwide problem, where excessive online activity and Internet use lead to struggles with time management, sleep, energy, and attention.

Top 5 Things to Know About Internet Addiction

Internet addiction is not yet an officially recognized mental disorder. Researchers have formulated diagnostic criteria for Internet addiction, but it is not included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR) . However, Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) is included as a condition for further study, and Internet addiction is developing as a specialist area.
At least three subtypes of Internet addiction have been identified: video game addiction , cybersex or online sex addiction, and online gambling addiction .
Increasingly, addiction to mobile devices, such as cellphones and smartphones, and addiction to social networking sites, such as Facebook, are being investigated. There may be overlaps between each of these subtypes. For example, online gambling involves online games, and online games may have elements of pornography.
Sexting , or sending sexually explicit texts, has landed many people in trouble. Some have been teens who have found themselves in hot water with child pornography charges if they are underage. It can also be a potential gateway to physical infidelity .
Treatment for Internet addiction is available, but only a few specialized Internet addiction services exist. However, a psychologist with knowledge of addiction treatment will probably be able to help.

If you or a loved one are struggling with an addiction, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 for information on support and treatment facilities in your area.

For more mental health resources, see our National Helpline Database .

As Internet addiction is not formally recognized as an addictive disorder, it may be difficult to get a diagnosis. However, several leading experts in the field of behavioral addiction have contributed to the current knowledge of symptoms of Internet addiction. All types of Internet addiction contain the following four components:

Excessive Use of the Internet

Despite the agreement that excessive Internet use is a key symptom, no one seems able to define exactly how much computer time counts as excessive. While guidelines suggest no more than two hours of screen time per day for youths under 18, there are no official recommendations for adults.

Furthermore, two hours can be unrealistic for people who use computers for work or study. Some authors add the caveat “for non-essential use,” but for someone with Internet addiction, all computer use can feel essential.

Here are some questions from Internet addiction assessment instruments that will help you to evaluate how much is too much.

How Often Do You...

Stay online longer than you intended?
Hear other people in your life complain about how much time you spend online?
Say or think, “Just a few more minutes” when online?
Try and fail to cut down on how much time you spend online?
Hide how long you’ve been online?

If any of these situations are coming up on a daily basis, you may be addicted to the Internet.

Although originally understood to be the basis of physical dependence on alcohol or drugs, withdrawal symptoms are now being recognized in behavioral addictions, including Internet addiction.

Common Internet withdrawal symptoms include anger, tension, and depression when Internet access is not available. These symptoms may be perceived as boredom, joylessness, moodiness, nervousness, and irritability when you can’t go on the computer.

Tolerance is another hallmark of alcohol and drug addiction and seems to be applicable to Internet addiction as well. This can be understood as wanting—and from the user's point of view, needing—more and more computer-related stimulation. You might want ever-increasing amounts of time on the computer, so it gradually takes over everything you do. The quest for more is likely a predominant theme in your thought processes and planning.

Negative Repercussions

If Internet addiction caused no harm, there would be no problem. But when excessive computer use becomes addictive, something starts to suffer.

One negative effect of internet addiction is that you may not have any offline personal relationships, or the ones you do have may be neglected or suffer arguments over your Internet use.

Online affairs can develop quickly and easily, sometimes without the person even believing online infidelity is cheating on their partner.
You may see your grades and other achievements suffer from so much of your attention being devoted to Internet use.
You may also have little energy for anything other than computer use—people with Internet addiction are often exhausted from staying up too late on the computer and becoming sleep deprived.
Finances can also suffer , particularly if your addiction is for online gambling, online shopping, or cybersex.

Internet addiction is particularly concerning for kids and teens. Children lack the knowledge and awareness to properly manage their own computer use and have no idea about the potential harms that the Internet can open them up to. The majority of kids have access to a computer, and it has become commonplace for kids and teens to carry cellphones.

While this may reassure parents that they can have two-way contact with their child in an emergency, there are very real risks that this constant access to the Internet can expose them to.

Children have become increasingly accustomed to lengthy periods of time connected to the Internet, disconnecting them from the surrounding world.
Children who own a computer and have privileged online access have an increased risk of involvement in cyberbullying , both as a victim and as a perpetrator.
Children who engage in problematic internet use are more likely to use their cellphone for cybersex, particularly through sexting, or access apps which could potentially increase the risk of sex addiction and online sexual harms, such as Tinder.

In addition, kids who play games online often face peer pressure to play for extended periods of time in order to support the group they are playing with or to keep their skills sharp. This lack of boundaries can make kids vulnerable to developing video game addiction. This can also be disruptive to the development of healthy social relationships and can lead to isolation and victimization.

Children and teens are advised to have no more than two hours of screen time per day.

What to Do If You Have an Internet Addiction

If you recognize the symptoms of Internet addiction in yourself or someone in your care, talk to your doctor about getting help. As well as being able to provide referrals to Internet addiction clinics, psychologists, and other therapists, your doctor can prescribe medications or therapy to treat an underlying problem if you have one, such as depression or social anxiety disorder.

Internet addiction can also overlap with other behavioral addictions, such as work addiction, television addiction , and smartphone addiction.

Internet addiction can have devastating effects on individuals, families, and particularly growing children and teens. Getting help may be challenging but can make a huge difference in your quality of life.

Dresp-Langley B, Hutt A. Digital addiction and sleep . IJERPH . 2022;19(11):6910. doi:10.3390/ijerph19116910

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Holoyda B, Landess J, Sorrentino R, Friedman SH. Trouble at teens' fingertips: Youth sexting and the law . Behav Sci Law . 2018;36(2):170-181. doi:10.1002/bsl.2335

Jorgenson AG, Hsiao RC, Yen CF. Internet Addiction and Other Behavioral Addictions . Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am . 2016;25(3):509-520. doi:10.1016/j.chc.2016.03.004

Reid Chassiakos YL, Radesky J, Christakis D, Moreno MA, Cross C. Children and Adolescents and Digital Media . Pediatrics . 2016;138(5):e20162593. doi:10.1542/peds.2016-2593

Musetti A, Cattivelli R, Giacobbi M, et al. Challenges in Internet Addiction Disorder: Is a Diagnosis Feasible or Not ? Front Psychol . 2016;7:842. doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2016.00842

Walrave M, Heirman W. Cyberbullying: Predicting Victimisation and Perpetration . Child Soc . 2011;25:59-72. doi:10.1111/j.1099-0860.2009.00260.x

Gámez-Guadix M, De Santisteban P. "Sex Pics?": Longitudinal Predictors of Sexting Among Adolescents . J Adolesc Health. 2018;63(5):608-614. doi:10.1016/j.jadohealth.2018.05.032

Hilgard J, Engelhardt CR, Bartholow BD. Individual differences in motives, preferences, and pathology in video games: the gaming attitudes, motives, and experiences scales (GAMES) . Front Psychol. 2013;4:608. doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2013.00608

Alavi SS, Ferdosi M, Jannatifard F, Eslami M, Alaghemandan H, Setare M. Behavioral Addiction versus Substance Addiction: Correspondence of Psychiatric and Psychological Views . Int J Prev Med . 2012;3(4):290-294.

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By Elizabeth Hartney, BSc, MSc, MA, PhD Elizabeth Hartney, BSc, MSc, MA, PhD is a psychologist, professor, and Director of the Centre for Health Leadership and Research at Royal Roads University, Canada.

College Students: Internet Addiction Proposal

Study problem, significance of the study, literature review, objectives and hypotheses, research methods, data collection, ethical considerations.

According to Gencer and Koc (2012), global use and access to the internet has been increasing over the decades. Moreover, the development of digital tools has played a major role in enhancing the use of the internet. Cash, Rae, Steel, and Winkler (2012) note that the rate of internet use is higher among adolescents and teenagers compared to older generations. Gencer and Koc (2012) report that there were 1.11 billion internet users in 2007, and the number rose to 2 billion in 2010. This reveals an increasing trend and suggests that the population is slowly becoming digitally literate. Cash et al. (2012) also report that the frequency of Internet Addiction Disorder in the United States is 8.2 per cent.

The authors indicate that internet addiction has become a growing social challenge affecting young adults today. Additionally, the disorder has been reported to cause neurological complications and psychological disturbances. Romano, Osborne, Truzoli, and Reed (2013) report that internet addiction has negative effects on people’s lives and their relationships with family and friends. The authors also note that family functioning is greatly affected by internet addiction, as it limits face-to-face communication. Communication is an essential factor in promoting healthy relationships between family members. In this regard, internet addiction among college students is likely to affect healthy relationships with their families.

As aforementioned, internet addiction has negative implications on the level of communication within the family (Romano et al., 2013). In this regard, it is necessary to examine the association between internet addiction and family relationships in an effort to devise ways that relationships can be improved. It is vital to undertake scientific studies to determine the correlation between the two factors. The current research will provide educationists and policymakers with critical information that could help them curb the rate of internet addiction among college students. Furthermore, the information will be important for parents to devise ways that can limit the rate of internet use by their children in a bid to improve communication within the family.

Pies (2009) defines internet addiction as the incapability of people to regulate their internet use, leading to psychological distress or functional impairment of their daily lives. Additionally, Gencer and Koc (2012) state that internet addiction can be compared to pathological gambling, as it does not involve substance use. It has become a problem in modern society, which has been aggravated by advancement in technology and the availability of smartphones. The authors also note that the use and access of the internet have increased in the past decades. Gencer and Koc (2012) acknowledge that psychologists and educationists have widely revealed that internet addiction is related to physical, social, and psychological problems. This is because internet addicts tend to lose focus and control over their daily routines.

Pies (2009) also indicates that the average college student spends an average of 40 hours a week using the internet. Moreover, the presence of social media sites has been greatly associated with Internet Addiction Disorder. Moreno et al. (2013) indicate that college students have abundant internet access and almost all the students are members of social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Myspace, and Google Plus among others. Moreover, the authors note that most of these students have smartphones and other gadgets that promote internet access. Kuss and Griffiths (2011) indicate that college students have the highest level of access to the internet and use it to send emails, social networking, and undertake academic assignments. However, such trends could easily lead to addiction.

Shields and Kane (2011) acknowledge that past studies have discovered a positive correlation between internet use, loneliness, and stress. The authors refer to this association as the “Internet Paradox” because the internet was created to improve communication, but ends up doing the opposite. Likewise, Gencer and Koc (2012) note that many previous research studies have focused on the negative impacts of internet use. Majority of these studies have found a positive correlation between internet use and anti-social behaviours. Alavi, Maracy, Jannatifard, and Eslami (2011) report that internet addicts are more likely to seek emotional support from social networking sites compared to regular users. In addition, this research indicates that introverts are more likely to be addicted to the internet than extroverts.

However, the authors warn that more comprehensive research studies are required to prove these associations. Shields and Kane (2011) report that internet addiction limits the presence of face-to-face communication and is likely to have negative impacts within the family structure. The authors also report that internet addiction is likely to be associated with depression among young users. Conversely, they warn that the relationship between internet addiction and depression could be confounded by other personal factors warranting further research.

In research by Wu et al. (2013), the findings reveal that the lack of proper parental monitoring is likely to lead to internet addiction among young people. Additionally, the authors argue that conflicts between parents and young individuals are likely to result in internet addiction. Specifically, young adults are likely to turn to social networking sites for social and emotional support when they feel rejected. Gencer and Koc (2012) note that parents should ensure that their children are socially active and limit the amount of time that they spend on social media sites. However, Moreno et al. (2013) argue that such regulations are impossible in the case of college students.

In reference to Akhter (2013), internet addiction is associated with a lack of participation in extracurricular activities among undergraduate students. Furthermore, the author reports that the addiction limits face-to-face communication and hence little or no interaction between the undergraduate students and their families. In different research by Shields and Kane (2011), the authors also discovered a positive correlation between internet addiction among young people and interaction with families and friends. Additionally, the authors found out that college students were more interested in promoting their online communications than face-to-face communications.

Kuss and Griffiths (2011) report that young people who are addicted to the internet experience unpleasant physical and emotional issues in its absence. The authors also note that these addicts are highly unlikely to improve on their face-to-face communication in the absence of the internet. According to Zainudin, Din, and Othman (2013), the impact of internet addiction on relationships has been reported to be both positive and negative. The authors argue that internet use could enhance interpersonal relations and promote communication between students and their families. However, Zainudin et al. (2013) also state that internet addiction is more likely to promote communication with peers than families.

Moreno et al. (2013) argue that family relations are very important to college students as they promote their well-being. Furthermore, the social support obtained from good relationships with the family is important in the prevention of depression and the promotion of self-esteem. These authors refer to college students as “socially isolated” and hence the need to have close relations with their families and friends.

Gemmill and Peterson (2006) acknowledge that college students are “millennials” since they have been using digital technologies from tender ages. In this view, the authors note that their use of the internet promotes communication and enhances relations with their families. The internet enables them to communicate with families who may be far away and unable to visit regularly. Additionally, the availability of social networks promotes good relations with families. Contrary to this perspective, Moreno et al. (2013) warn that internet addiction among college students affects family duties.

The authors also note that being online for more than six hours predisposes these students to internet addiction. Gencer and Koc (2012) argue that the level of addiction is dependent on the type of online activities that young people engage in. Activities such as chatting and online gaming are likely to increase the amount of time that individuals spend on the internet. However, it is important to note that individual characteristics also determine the level of addiction. Despite some authors reporting positive associations between internet addiction and family relations, the majority of the research has reported negative associations.

There are four objectives that will be assessed in the current study and they include:

To investigate whether college students are addicted to the internet.
To assess whether the sites visited contribute to internet addiction.
To determine whether there is a correlation between internet use and family relationships.
To establish whether parental monitoring of the students reduces the time spent of the internet.

Additionally, the null hypotheses for the study will be:

The college students are not addicted to the internet (being online for more than six hours in a day will be defined as internet addiction).
The internet sites that the students visit are negatively correlated with addiction.
There is a negative correlation between internet addiction and family relationships.
Parents monitoring on the use of the internet is negatively correlated with addiction.

Generally, this will be a correlational study examining the relationships between dependent and independent variables. The research will be undertaken among college students, and the subjects to participate in the study will be identified through the school administration. There will be three inclusion criteria for participating in the research:

One must consent to participate in the study.
One must be an undergraduate student undertaking any of the courses offered by the college.
One must be randomly selected to participate.

In view of this, the exclusion criteria will be:

Those that refuse to consent to the study.
Students that are not undertaking undergraduate studies in the university.
Students who are not selected to participate after sampling.

In an effort to generalize the findings to all the college students, the sample size will include 100 students. As aforementioned, the computerized list of the students will be obtained from the school administration. Additionally, a simple random sampling technique using the computerized random sample calculator will be applied to select the students to participate in the research. After the selection, the researcher will communicate with the students through their email addresses indicating the purpose of the research and requesting their participation. The students will be given four days to respond to the emails and those that will not respond within the period will be excluded from the research. The random sampling technique will be applied again to replace those excluded. Furthermore, the school administration will assist in sensitizing the students on the importance of the research.

The dependent variable for the research will be internet addiction. Various authors have defined internet addiction as being on the internet for more than six hours in a day (Moreno, et al., 2013). There are several questions that will be asked to determine whether these students are addicted to the internet and they include; On average, how many hours do you spend on the internet per day? Do you use the internet during your class time? Do you use the internet during family time? The study will also determine whether the internet sites visited contribute to internet addiction. In this regard, the students will be requested to list the sites that they visit regularly. The researcher will emphasize on the confidentiality of the data given by the students to make sure that they give the correct information on the internet sites visited. Demographic characteristics such as age, gender, course being undertaken, and number of people in the family will be included as independent variables.

Parent monitoring on the use of the internet while at home will be assessed as an independent variable. A Likert scale will be applied to determine the level of strictness applied by the parents regarding the use of the internet while at home. Specifically, the levels will include; not strict, strict, and very strict. Additionally, the students will be asked whether their parents monitor the sites internet sites while at home.

Family relations will also be assessed as an independent variable. Several questions will be asked to determine whether the family relations are positive or negative. These will include; Are you close with your parents? Are you close with your siblings? (If any), How often do you talk with your family members while at home? How often do you communicate with your family members while in college? If your parents live far from the college, what tools do you use to communicate with them? Have you ever had conflicts with your parents regarding the amount of time you spend on the internet? Do you access the internet during family time? How do your parents respond to your use of the internet? Information on the family relations will be correlated with internet addiction patterns.

The current research will apply both qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques. Quantitative data will be collected through the e-mailed questionnaires. Additionally, qualitative data will be collected through a focus group discussion with some of the researcher’s classmates. The focus group discussion will give in-depth opinions on the association between internet addiction and family relationships. Ten classmates will participate in the focus group discussion and the researcher will moderate it. Moreover, the participants will be selected randomly and requested to participate, and it will be held after school hours.

The validity of the questionnaires will be promoted through pilot testing. This will be done before the actual data collection and a random sample of 50 students will be selected to fill the questionnaires through the help of the school administration. The researcher will analyse the questionnaires to determine whether the scales are valid and reliable. The pilot testing phase will also assist in eliminating any redundancy and inconsistency in the questionnaires. The final versions of the questionnaires will be emailed to the 100 respondents that agree to participate in the study.

The research will comply with the college’s ethical rules and guidelines. In an effort to uphold the ethical requirements of the research study, the researcher will obtain informed consent from the participants and ensure that the information received is confidential and anonymous. Prior to emailing the questionnaires to the study subjects, the researchers will send an informed consent form outlining the purpose of the research. The participation of the students in the study will be voluntary. Moreover, the participants will have the freedom to withdraw from the study at any time. The researcher will only email the questionnaires upon the receipt of the signed consent forms.

The participants will be identified through special codes and no names will appear on the questionnaires and the consent forms. This means that no personal data will be obtained from the students. Consequently, the participants of the focus group discussion will be identified through various codes and no personal data will be collected. Information collected during the qualitative and quantitative data collection phases will be confidential and only accessible to the researcher. These regulations will also apply during the data analysis and the researcher will not report personal information in the final write-up.

Akhter, N. (2013). Relationship between internet addiction and academic performance among university undergraduates. Educational Research and Reviews, 8 (19), 1793-1796. Web.

Alavi, S. S., Maracy, M. R., Jannatifard, F., & Eslami, M. (2011). The effect of psychiatric symptoms on the internet addiction disorder in Isfahan’s University students. Journal of Research in Medical Sciences, 16 (6), 793–800. Web.

Cash, H., Rae, C. D., Steel, A. H., & Winkler, A. (2012). Internet addiction: A brief summary of research and practice. Current Psychiatry Reviews, 8 (5), 292-298. Web.

Gemmill, E., & Peterson, M. (2006). Technology use among college students: Implications for student affairs professionals. NASPA Journal, 43 (2), 280-300. Web.

Gencer, S. L., & Koc, M. (2012). Internet abuse among teenagers and its relations to internet usage patterns and demographics. Educational Technology and Society, 15 (2), 25–36. Web.

Kuss, D. J., & Griffiths, M. D. (2011). Online social networking and addiction—A review of the psychological literature. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 8 (12), 3528-3552. Web.

Moreno, M. A., Jelenchick, L. A., Koff, R., Eickhoff, J. C., Goniu, N., Davis, A.,… Christakis, D. A. (2013). Associations between internet use and fitness among college students: an experience sampling approach. Journal of Interaction Science, 1 (4), 1-8. Web.

Pies, R. (2009). Should DSM-V Designate “Internet Addiction” a Mental Disorder? Psychiatry (Edgemont), 6 (2), 31–37. Web.

Romano, M., Osborne, L. A., Truzoli, R., & Reed, P. (2013). Differential psychological Impact of Internet Exposure on Internet Addicts. PLOS One, 8 (2), 1-4. Web.

Shields, N., & Kane, J. (2011). Social and psychological correlates of internet use among college students. Cyberpsychology: Journal of Psychosocial Research on Cyberspace, 5 (1), 1-5. Web.

Wu, X., Chen, X., Han, J., Meng, H., Luo, J., Nydegger, L., & Wu, H. (2013). Prevalence and factors of addictive internet use among adolescents in Wuhan, China: Interactions of parental relationship with age and hyperactivity-impulsivity. PLOS One, 8 (4), 1-8. Web.

Zainudin, A., Din, M. M., & Othman, M. (2013). Impacts due to internet addiction among Malaysian University students. International Journal of Asian Social Science, 3 (9), 1922-1928. Web.

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Home — Essay Samples — Information Science and Technology — Internet — Internet for Entertainment: Impact of Internet Addiction

Internet for Entertainment: Impact of Internet Addiction

Categories: Internet Loneliness Negative Impact of Technology

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Words: 1201 |

Published: Aug 4, 2023

Words: 1201 | Pages: 3 | 7 min read

Introduction, impact of internet use on loneliness, relation between loneliness and internet addiction.

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internet addiction

Updated 23 April 2021

Downloads 103

Category Information Science and Technology , Sociology

Topic Gadgets , Internet , Society

Axiomatically, the snowballing use of contemporary networking gadgets, such as smartphones and computers, has changed everyday society's way of life in the sense that group communications and conversations continue to revolve around the Internet, and as a result, many practitioners and social scientists have given a great boost to exploring it in detail. Precisely, the internet has been a subject of interest to many, particularly when social life is referred to (Whang et al. 143). The use of the Computer and the Internet of Things came to the human race as a supernatural invention. In the last 15 years, it has been a medium of awakening for human cultures. For instance, it has encouraged transfer and accessibility of information, digital communication, and interactions among people hence the massive spread of knowledge. Currently, it has attracted users worldwide, thus, is another significant platform that drives globalization besides technological advancements. Unfortunately, it has created the certain set of problems including internet addiction. According to Kuss and Mark (22) it refers to users_x0092_ predictive behavior of using the internet everywhere for a proximate period of forty to eighty hours every week per session lasting twenty hours. This paper, therefore, delves into internet addiction with a focus on problems emanating from internet addiction as well as possible intervention measures.Discussions on the Effects Internet Addiction from the Literature Search Internet addict(s) addict is an individual who never parts with a phone. He or she will ensure that wherever he/she is a phone must be there. Entangled with this problem, the addicts will always find it challenging to part with the internet (Chou et al. 363). Internet addictions exude a lot of symptoms. It is very easy for an individual to tell whether he or she is addicted. The first sign to look at and comprehend addiction is a regular phone user my start experiencing unusual health conditions and anomalies like regular headaches, persistent drizzling, and other symptoms which help to gauge whether an individual is addicted to phone or not. All these happenings are a clear manifestation of phone abuse (Chou et al. 363). Secondly, the addicts are always crying over the low battery. The Rate of phone usage is high, and hence the battery capacity cannot sustain it. Frequently, you are likely to find them with power banks purposed to ensure that at no time they go offline. Furthermore, addicted drivers or cyclists will always opt to communicate over the phone even while they are driving on the busy road. Moreover, addicts always assume that one phone and one line is not enough. Occasionally, you are probably to find them operating more than one phone at a time, the number of contact line cannot be over emphasized (Chou et al. 363). The effects of internet addiction which have been identified from the extant literature search are discussed below. First, many marriages have been seriously disrupted by the spouses getting overindulged on the internet. Following this, they have less time allocated to act and accomplish their responsibilities. Observations are that they are greatly affected by the internet hence fail to act in time to finish their daily house chores. As such, _x0093_cyber-widow_x0094_ is an analogy that best describes the spouses since they resort to the internet as their companions forgetting certain tasks including the obligation to do the laundry or visit the grocery. In certain instance, they have forgotten to pick up children from school and only remember to do so when it is too late and only reminded by a call from school (Kuss and Mark, 66). Internet addiction is a thorn in the flesh that massively destroys relationships. Unfortunately, the internet users have overlooked at the problem due to the current popularity as well as advanced utility. According to Boyd (44), fifty-three percent of relationships that failed to work allied to internet addiction. For instance, marriages, parent-children relationships, dating relationships and general close friendships surveyed have failed to work due to internet addiction. Secondly, internet addiction has led to children being rebellious to their parents while parents intemperate such reactions as disobedience and lack of respect. For instance, children often spend most of time playing online video games with friends in close quarters, chat with friends through various communication platforms including Facebook, WhatsApp, and hangouts. The consequences are that they forget to do their home works as well as studies and finally fail. Parents, on the other hand, would want the children to avoid the internet which they realize to be time-consuming and would do anything necessary to stop them. Under such circumstances, conflicts arise within the families and poor interactions with the children arise creating undesired family relationships where the misunderstanding is the order of the day (Whang et al. 143). Thirdly, dating relationships, as well as families, have failed due to internet addiction. The internet has taken communication online where people reach one another and provide feedbacks over the internet through messages applications on their respective devices. In such scenarios, an internet addict as noted in (Gackenbach, 56) forgets to reply their partner_x0092_s messages due to their attention shifted to other things online that they find more interesting. The result is that such persons end up breaking their relationship when the individual whose message was not replied feels not valued. Similarly, suspicion relating to _x0093_cyber affairs_x0094_ when an individual spends most of his time online has seen many relationships including those married breaking up. Others commit suicide for feeling rejected while others get distressed for having wasted time on the online dating affairs (Beard 14). Still focusing on it effects, internet addition has been found to adversely impacts social life of those who become addicts to it. Researchers have indicated that the social life of persons who spent most of their time on internet either by surfing or performing other activities related to it have a tendency of developing a poor social life. It is also hard for such people to be talked to as they need no disturbances or when talked they may not pay attention to the conversation and thus they are likely to be secluded by these who feel like they need consideration when conversing with them (Nalwa et al. 635). Furthermore, a study conducted by Kim, Yeonsoo et al (51) indicates that internet addiction has adverse effects on health and like style of those individuals who constantly use it. For instance, they usually become so absorbed to it to the extent that their eating habits will automatically change which directly affects their health and well-being. The study established that most of the addicts could hardly find _x0093_enough time_x0094_ to eat meal as most of the time they are found busy surfing or attending to other online activities such as gaming. They tend to hardly eat, and if they do, they take very small portion which consists of irregular eating partners. Moreover, the research found out that since they had less time to eat food, they could easily fall in the trap of abusing drugs as majority of the respondent consented of abusing drugs like taking alcohol and smoking tobacco. All these have negative effects on their lives as they end up being drug addicts and their heath diminishes apace as other malnutrition conditions sets in quickly. The current school systems are embracing the use of the internet by buying computers and installing online education materials including students_x0092_ libraries. In addition, they end up installing wireless connections for use by those who own their personal computers. Once registered in such schools, the student is provided with school access emails, accounts, and passwords with the hope of accessing all course materials and relevant information sources that can help build the students_x0092_ knowledge (Nalwa et al. 635). Unfortunately, such options have derailed student_x0092_s performances than to better them. In particular, internet addicted students do not use the school provided internet for research and study purposes. Instead, they get destructed with materials they find more interesting and satisfactory to them (Boyd, 55). The issue then becomes failing to cover the necessary course materials, thus, fail to obtain the pass marks required to move to the next level or complete the course. For fear and demoralization which accompany having to repeat the course, the student drops out of school without weighing the consequences of having a future with inadequate education to prepare them for the desired job opportunities. Nevertheless, the internet is merited as an important research tool for every college students. The Internet in terms of information sharing, knowledge and research is a cost productive platform. However, the internet addicted students engage in irrelevant activities while given the opportunity to use the internet. For example, they mostly with or without knowing surf irrelevant but informative websites, play video games as well as participate in gossip chats at the expense of the recommended internet cost productive activities (Nalwa et al. 635). Internet addiction in relation to addicted employees interferes with the level of productivity among the workers. This is currently the problem which many business managers have to deal with. A survey reported by (Montag, and Martin, 109) revealed that fifty-five percent of various company executives believed that a number of time employees spent on the internet for non-company activities greatly undermined their efficiency and effectiveness. For example, the addicted internet company employees besides spending most of their time surfing the internet while home-based hence waking up late to report to jobs, furthermore use the company resources to continue where they had left. The implication is that they have less time to work on the assigned company tasks leaving the managers with no options but to relieve them of their duties. Hence, internet addiction occupationally has made many employees to lose their jobs and end up in regrets (Nalwa et al. 635). There should be social welfare programs that inform through creating awareness of the dangers of internet addiction among the users. For example, many people become addicted without realizing it. Hence, through creating such social welfare programs, the internet users will get the opportunity to understand the benefits of time management, prioritizing activities and using the internet for the right purpose (Beard 14). To manage family problems such as internet related conflicts among parents and their children, the parents should not ban the use of internet instead they should focus on advising the children on the consequences of overuse and indulgent with the internet. Since they are in charge of the devices that the children use, they are obliged to set rules and talk to the children while informing them of the importance and need for such rules. For example, computers used by family members should not be in children_x0092_s rooms but at a position where everyone sees whatever goes on (Nalwa et al. 635). To manage occupational and academic problems caused by internet addiction, the institutions and the companies should control the material that is only related to the academics or work. Surfing beyond such scopes should be limited by creating barriers including the controlling sites and what an individual is able to access while using the institutional or business computers as well as networks (Beard 14). Internet addiction is real and it is high time that people became informed of its dangers including relationship problems, occupational problems, and academic issues. Measures should be taken to curb the situation and prevent it from spreading to other likely people who may be intensive users. Thus, there should be online awareness programs to inform and advise the users, parents should control what their children access while schools, institutions, and companies should control their networks to only avail materials in that are useful for relevant objectives (Beard 14). Analysis from the Literature Review Internet addiction is one of the threating issues to the society and has received considerable attention from the researchers who mostly are the psychologists and psychiatrists. The usage of internet has increased considerably in the past years which have been contributed to massive use of information and communication technology.in as much as it is the most effective and key aspects in our lives, studies have established that it is associated with many dysfunctional situations or many different problems (Beard 14). Its usage is becoming more apparent. Experts in this area such as therapists have defined it as being an interdisciplinary occurrence and several sciences have researched and examined it including law, medicine, ethics, sociology among many other using different perspectives and research focus. The growing concern for studying it is a reason enough to be persuaded and certain that it is a complex form of psychological syndrome with various features such as: tolerance, effective disorders, social challenges among many others which come into play when a person become fully absorbed by it. It results in psychological education or even social conflict extending to an individual work life too (Beard 14). Academically, it_x0092_s likely to affect the learning process as the addicts will frequently find it difficult to balance between learning session and staying online. This has resulted is students grades dropping. Additionally, their social life has been affects and most of them feel secluded by fellow students as they spent most of their life on the internet. This has greatly compromised their social life. Moreover, it can cause physical or mental health hitches like increases in depression, augmented anxiety, low family and social relationships among many other problems related to their health. Psychological effects include loss of sleep, lack of concentration, low morale, solitude, subjective distress and increased psychological arousal (Nalwa et al. 635) Insights Learned From the Research Internet usage is an important aspect of our lives. Its virtually influences our daily lives like interaction, communication, learning, researching, transacting, gaming, among many other ways through which internet has ben or can be used to ease our daily activities. Summative with all such tactical benefits, its constant usage has caused addiction to those who are in constant use of it. Many users have found themselves totally unable to do without it and truly becoming addicted to it. Student_x0092_s life can also be affected as their attention is affected by the internet activities. Marriages and families have experienced breakup which has been caused by one of the partner fluting online. It_x0092_s imperative to note that its usage cannot be wished off but it_x0092_s advisable that necessary steps to be taken to ensure that an individual uses it when there is need and avoid chances of becoming addicted to it (Beard 14). Conclusion Internet addiction has remained to be social vile that is damaging the society. Its effect are clear crystal as exhibited by those who become it addicts. The aim of this paper was to conduct literature review analysis on internet addiction, its effects and various interventions which can be used to mitigate the effects. The paper found out that it has many negative effects which have affected the quality of life of the addicts which include regular social problems, family issues, and academic problems among others that this paper evaluated.Works Cited Beard, Keith W. "Internet addiction: a review of current assessment techniques and potential assessment questions." CyberPsychology & Behavior 8.1 (2005): 7-14. Boyd, Danah. It's Complicated: The Social Lives of Networked Teens. , 2014. Print. Chou, Chien, Linda Condron, and John C. Belland. "A review of the research on Internet addiction." Educational Psychology Review 17.4 (2005): 363-388. Gackenbach, Jayne. Psychology and the Internet: Intrapersonal, Interpersonal, and Transpersonal Implications. Amsterdam: Elsevier/Academic Press, 2007. Internet resource. Kim, Yeonsoo et al. "The Effects Of Internet Addiction On The Lifestyle And Dietary Behavior Of Korean Adolescents." Nutrition Research And Practice, vol 4, no. 1, 2010, p. 51. The Korean Nutrition Society And The Korean Society Of Community Nutrition (KAMJE), doi:10.4162/nrp.2010.4.1.51. Kuss, Daria J, and Mark D. Griffiths. Internet Addiction in Psychotherapy. London: Palgrave Macmillan UK, 2015. Internet resource. Nalwa, Kanwal, and Archana Preet Anand. "Internet addiction in students: A cause of concern." CyberPsychology & Behavior 6.6 (2003): 653-656. Montag, Christian, and Martin Reuter. Internet Addiction: Neuroscientific Approaches and Therapeutical Interventions. , 2015. Internet resource. Whang, Leo Sang-Min, Sujin Lee, and Geunyoung Chang. "Internet over-users' psychological profiles: a behavior sampling analysis on internet addiction." Cyberpsychology & behavior 6.2 (2003): 143-150.

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The Internet Addiction

The internet is the computer’s method to connect us with different fields of life in various parts of the world. The computer is connected with booster station satellites, systems, and feeders across the globe.
It is of immense utility in the field of communication and entertainment.
It guides us in the field of education.
Its addiction is harmful in many ways. It is a wastage of time and money.
Its excessive use is likely to affect our mental and nervous systems.

The Internet is the computer’s method to connect us with different fields of life in various parts of the world. The computer is connected with a booster station satellite, systems, and feeders across the globe. This system of linking one computer with all the other computers of the world through satellite is called the Internet. It is the most powerful and most rapid means of information and knowledge that opens to you in all fields of life on the screen.

The internet is of immense utility in the field of communication and entertainment. We can communicate with anyone anywhere in the world and send him messages very soon. The E-mail has made it possible to send any amount of information to any place in a few seconds. The receiver of the information can at once send back the reply of this information. The exchange of information is sure to promote business, industry, science, and technology. At the same time, it may strengthen our social and cultural relations. It is the internet that offers jobs to the unemployed and marriage proposals to the unmarried. It furnishes and supplies the latest research being done in the field of science and technology. It touches the business world and updates our knowledge about the prevailing marketing trends about different commercial commodities .

The internet guides us in the field of education. Various educational programs and scholarships appear on the website and viewers make a note of them at once. It has shortened the concept of time and conquered time . Its utility is no doubt marvelous.

Owing to its utility in every field of life; the computer has reached every educated home. Internet connections are in great demand . Internet cafes are on the increase. Young men, women, and children have become very fond of this modern invention. Internet addiction has touched and swept the students, scholars, and educated people .

The internet service is no doubt very useful, but its excessive use is harmful. It is a double-edged weapon. Its addiction is harmful in many ways. First, it is the wastage of time and money. The students do not attend to their books and leave their studies. They have developed a passion to entertain themselves with its programs based on love and sex .

The internet clubs and cafes have sprung up in every city like mushrooms . They are often misused to gain access to pornographic websites . One can sit in an armchair and enjoy all sorts of pornography. A single click of the mouse could expose to you the whole range of ‘Sex’.

The morals of our young boys and girls are likely to be ruined. It is very shocking that the instrument of virtue has been turned into an instrument of vice.

Secondly: Excessive use of the internet is likely to affect our nervous and mental systems. It leaves a negative influence on our health . The users of the internet sit hours together before the computer and are likely to harm their muscular power. They may miss the peace and serenity of nightly sleep. In the morning, when they get up, they become peevish and angry. This disadvantage of the internet supersedes all its utility.

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Front Psychiatry

Internet addiction in young adults: The role of impulsivity and codependency

Pierluigi diotaiuti.

1 Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University of Cassino and Southern Lazio, Cassino, Italy

Stefania Mancone

Stefano corrado, alfredo de risio.

2 Department of Human Studies, Communication, Education, and Psychology, Libera Università Maria SS. Assunta (LUMSA), Rome, Italy

Elisa Cavicchiolo

3 Department of Human, Philosophical and Educational Sciences, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy

Laura Girelli

Andrea chirico.

4 Department of Psychology of Development and Socialization Processes, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy

Associated Data

The raw data supporting the conclusions of this article will be made available by the authors, without undue reservation.

Excessive Internet use has demonstrated comorbidity with other psychological symptoms and psychiatric disorders, as well as impairments in the management of daily life, relationships and emotional stability. Recent findings in the literature have consistently supported the relationship between impulsivity and Internet addiction. The present study hypothesized that, in addition to impulsivity, a further predictor of Internet addiction might be relational co-dependency, which is also associated in the literature with addiction phenomena, but mainly substance addiction. This paper investigates the role and predictive weight of impulsivity and codependency on Internet addiction on a sample of young adult university students (n = 481) by using a hierarchical regression analysis. The participants were administered the UADI-2, the BIS-11 and the SFCDS. In terms of percentage distribution, 38 % of the participants were in the dependency range, while 37.7 % demonstrated Internet abuse behavior. The results confirmed the role of impulsiveness (β = 0.312) and added to the literature by showing the significant role of relational codependency (β = 0.275), gender (β = 0.174) and age (β = 0.196). Thus, male participants were more dependent, more impulsive and more co-dependent, with increasing age in the given range (18–30). The present study shed light to the presence of this issue among young adults and that, as a preventive and restraining measure, there is a need not only for targeted awareness-raising programmes but also for interventions to promote greater emotional control and a more balanced management of personal relationships.

Introduction

The Internet is one of the most widespread and accessible media for young people: chatting, role-playing, etc., are increasingly the routinary activities for them and the growing use of this media has led to the emergence of psychological problems linked to its possible maladaptive use in young people. The phenomenon of Internet abuse has been called by different names such as computer addiction, compulsive Internet use, Internet mania, problematic or pathological Internet use, and finally Internet Addiction (IA) ( 1 – 5 ). Young ( 6 ), Young and Rogers ( 1 ) bring Internet Addiction Disorder to the center of the scientific debate, shifting the diagnostic reference from substance-related problems to those found in pathological gambling problems (GAP) and in fact placing Internet addiction within impulse control disorders. Individuals with Internet addiction may lose control over their Internet use, resulting in impairments in the management of daily life, relationships and emotional stability ( 1 , 2 , 4 , 7 ).

A critical level is identified when the excessive Internet use impedes the management of the young individual's developmental activities and negative consequences come to light in an overt way (for example, decline in school performance, excessive limitation of outside activities, permanent conflicts with parents and friends, etc.) ( 8 – 11 ). When it happens, except the use of Internet, several other activities and interests are neglected, despite they are consciously perceived as significant, while individual continue to massively use the Internet despite the possible harmful consequences, a phenomenon known as “harmful consumption” ( 12 , 13 ).

Compared with the past, currently Internet abuse is classified not as an impulse control disorder ma as a (potential) addiction, i.e., the fact the tendency is to define addiction to specific online activities (as seen in section III of DSM-5 and ICD-11), rather than Internet addiction in general.

Currently, the main forms of addiction associated with the excessive use of Internet are: Cyber-relational addiction , characterized by an excessive tendency to establish friendship or love relationships with people met online, mainly via chat rooms, forums or social networks ( 14 ). In this condition, online relationships quickly become over-involving and individuals tend to neglect their relationships in presence with friends and family. Information overload , characterized by an obsessive search for information on the web: individuals spend increasing amounts of time searching for and organizing data on the web ( 15 ). Cybersexual addiction , which is characterized by compulsive use of pornography and virtual sex sites. Individuals usually download and use online pornography, engage in adult-only chats and may have compulsive masturbation ( 16 ). Offline gaming , characterized by a tendency to over-involve in virtual games that do not involve multi-player interaction and are not played over a network ( 17 ). Online gaming , in which excessive involvement and compulsive behaviors related to various online activities such as gambling, compulsive shopping, role-playing games are evident ( 18 , 19 ).

Excessive Internet use has been found to be in co-morbidity with other psychological symptoms and psychiatric disorders ( 4 ). Internet addiction has been found to be associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder ( 20 , 21 ), low self-esteem ( 22 ), shyness ( 23 ), depressive symptoms ( 1 , 23 – 26 ), hostility ( 27 , 28 ), interpersonal sensitivity ( 27 , 29 ), disturbances in relationships ( 30 , 31 ), obsessive-compulsive symptoms (OCS) ( 20 , 24 , 25 ), and impulsivity ( 32 , 33 ).

Harmful Internet use, like substance abuse, triggers individuals' preoccupation with details, nervousness, irritability, aggression and impulsivity ( 4 , 34 ). Previous studies have also shown that obsessive-compulsive symptoms are associated with the severity of Internet addiction ( 20 , 24 , 25 ). Cao et al. ( 32 ) reported that adolescents with Internet addiction show increased impulsivity and have various comorbid psychiatric disorders, which may be associated with Internet addiction. For those with behavioral inhibition issues, the Internet can serve as an area where individuals can receive short-term rewards through gaming, surfing or social networking, and be reinforced by immediate gratification ( 7 , 35 ). A further study suggested that impulsivity can be considered as an endophenotype of addictive behavior ( 36 ). Impulsive individuals have problems in managing their behavior, showing recurrent failures to resist impulses to engage in a specified behavior and a feeling of lack of control while engaging in the behavior. A large body of the literature in this area concerns impulsiveness impacting the addictive tendencies ( 37 , 38 ). Consistent with this, recent findings in the literature have consistently supported the relationship between impulsivity and Internet Addiction ( 33 , 39 – 44 ).

Another construct that has been associated with addiction phenomena (predominantly substance addiction) is that of codependency. Codependency is often referred to as “relationship addiction”. It's an emotional and behavioral condition that interferes with an individual's ability to develop a healthy, mutually satisfying relationship. But over the years it's been expanded to include individuals who maintain one-sided, emotionally destructive, or abusive relationships ( 45 – 47 ). Researchers have identified several factors that are often linked with codependency: lack of trust in self or others; fear of being alone or abandoned; a need to control other people; chronic anger; frequent lying; poor communication skills; trouble making decisions; problems with intimacy; difficulty establishing boundaries; trouble adjusting to change; an extreme need for approval and recognition ( 48 – 50 ). The role of codependency among the variables associated with gambling disorder has been reported by Barrera-Algarín and Vázquez-Fernández ( 51 ). In contrast, an interesting contribution by Lu ( 52 ) recently illustrated the link between virtual community codependency and virtual community addiction: the virtual community codependency will need individuals to have a desire to derive compensation from the virtual community that cannot be achieved in the real world. If people in this community have similar needs, priorities, and goals, increasing the use of Facebook will lead to an increase in virtual community addiction. The author argues that codependency is a pattern of dysfunction in interpersonal relationships. According to the social compensation theory, if people feel insecurity and negative social identity in real life interpersonal networks, they may spend more time using virtual communities as compensation. Lu's study ( 52 ) tested and reported a direct impact of virtual community codependency on virtual community addiction. Furthermore, the increased use of Facebook when there is a sense of the ‘spirit of belonging together' can lead to increased tendency to virtual community addiction. In more general terms, Shishkov et al. ( 53 ) have first suggested a direct association between internet addiction and codependency, while, with reference to the set of patterns of thinking and behavioral characteristics of the codependent personality, Artemtseva and Malkina ( 54 ) pointed out that the codependents make cognitive errors about the consequences of their behavior in order to constantly protect themselves from uncertainty.

While the role of impulsivity has been widely analyzed in the literature of Internet Addiction, there is still a lack of studies that consider codependency as another possible factor associated to excessive Internet use. The present work had therefore the following objectives: evaluate the importance of Internet abuse and dependence in a sample of young adults, by also considering the gender of the participants; investigate the possible role of Impulsivity and codependency in explaining Internet Addiction. Other studies have confirmed for this age group the relationship between impulsivity and problems associated with various forms of addiction ( 55 – 59 ), and this can be even more true considering the important personal limitations in terms of mobility and relationships related to COVID-19 pandemic, which have not only solicited an increase in addictive practices ( 60 , 61 ) but also a deterioration in perceived safety in relationships with others, amplifying the compensatory search for codependent relationship patterns that Internet use can offer ( 62 – 65 ). On the basis of the literature presented hitherto, we hypothesized that relational codependency might be in young adults, in addition to impulsivity, a further significant predictor of Internet addiction.

Methods and materials

Participants.

Participants were recruited by forwarding an email to students enrolled at a university in central-southern Italy. This email defined the goals as well as the function of the study. Subjects were invited to enter a specific link found in the same notice, after which they filled in and posted the answers telematically and digitally. Participants were assured anonymity and also the use of information in aggregate type for research purposes. They also provided their written informed consent to participate in this study. The protocol was approved by the local university Institutional Review Board and tools administration took place in April and May 2020. A total of 1,500 emails were sent out. As far as the drop-out ratio is concerned, 86 participants dropped out after beginning to fill it in, therefore 481, including 219 (45.5 %) males and 262 females (54.5 %) with an average age of 21.79 and SD = 4.16 and age range 18–30, completed questionnaires were finally collected.

- Uso-Abuso e Dipendenza da Internet [Internet use-abuse and addiction] (UADI-2), ( 66 ), assesses the psychopathological risk of Internet abuse and the psychological use that users make of the network (example items: “I happen to have flashbacks or disconnected thoughts during or after a long Internet connection”; “Sometimes I like to lie on the net”; “On the Internet I happen to look for erotic material or talk about sex”). The instrument measures the psychological and psychopathological aspects related to the use and abuse of the Internet and has been designed to be administered both off-line (by filling in the U.A.D.I. in paper form) and on-line (by filling it in via Internet). The instrument consists of 24 items that the person must answer on a 5-point scale ranging from 1 (Absolutely false for me) to 5 (Absolutely true for me). The UADI-2 allows scoring with reference to four dimensions: Dissociation (describes some dissociative symptoms as bizarre sensory experiences, de-personalization, de-realization, along with the tendency to alienation and estrangement-escape from reality), Impact on Real Life (contains items describing the real-life consequences i.e., any changes in habits, social relationships, mood as a result of continued Internet use), Addiction Symptoms (contains items that address some behaviors and symptoms of addiction, particularly with reference to gradually increasing linkage period, abstinence, compulsiveness, and hyperinvolvement), Identity and Sexuality (contains items describing manipulation of true personal identity online and the tendency to search for sexually oriented content). The scoring has three score ranges: up to 62, normal Internet use; 63–74, Internet abuse; over 74, Internet addiction. Cronbach's alpha for this study was 0.867.
- Barratt Impulsiveness Scale-11 [BIS-11 ; ( 67 , 68 )] is a 30-item self-report questionnaire designed to assess general impulsivity taking into account the multifactorial nature of the construct. The structure of the instrument allows the assessment of six first-order factors (attention, motor, self-control, cognitive complexity, perseverance, cognitive instability) and three second-order factors: attentional impulsivity, motor impulsivity (motor and perseverance), unplanned impulsivity (self-control and cognitive complexity). Example items: “I do things without thinking”; “I act on the spur of the moment”; “I often have extraneous thoughts when thinking”. The person is asked to respond regarding how often he or she generally (not referring to a specific time interval) acts and thinks similarly to the items on the scale. The total score is obtained by summing up the first and second order factors. The items are distributed on a four-point scale (Rarely/Never = 1, Occasionally = 2, Often = 3, Almost Always/Ever = 4). In the present study, the Italian version by Fossati et al. ( 68 ) was used. Cronbach's alpha for this study was 0.835.
- Spann-Fisher Codependency Scale [SFCDS; ( 69 )]. Codependency is referred as a dysfunctional pattern of relating to others with an extreme focus outside of oneself, lack of expression of feelings, and personal meaning derived from relationships with others. The tool is an unidimensional 16-item 6-point scale, ranging in score from 16 to 96 with higher scores reflecting codependency (example items: “It is hard for me to make decisions”, “I don't usually let others see the “real” me”, or “When someone upsets me I will hold it in for a long time, but once in a while I explode”). The mean Spann-Fischer co-dependency score is approximated with a midpoint of 52.6, a “high” score of 67.2 and a “low” score of 37.3 suggested by Fischer, Spann, and Crawford ( 69 ). The codependent person puts a lot of effort into satisfying the needs of others, constantly trying to be helpful and organizing others' lives, losing sight of and disregarding their own needs. For the purposes of this study, we obtained an Italian version of the questionnaire through back-translation procedures. We performed an exploratory factor analysis (Maximum Likelihood, promax rotation) on The Italian Spann-Fischer Codependency Scale items. Our results revealed a one-dimensional structure. A test for internal consistency and item-total correlations confirmed that excluding one poor functioning item, best preserved the reliability of the questionnaire, and we therefore decided to exclude it from the final Italian version. After this adjustment, the scale consisted of 15 items and showed good internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.820).

Statistical analysis

Descriptive analyses (percentages, means, standard deviation, skewness and kurtosis, confidence intervals); t -test for comparison of scores with respect to gender; Pearson's bivariate correlations; testing of univariate and multivariate regression assumptions; and hierarchical regression were conducted.

Descriptively, 38.0% ( n = 183) of the sample were in the range of Internet addiction (with a mean score on the UADI-2 > 74). The 27.7% ( n = 133) of the sample were found to be in the Internet abuse range (with a mean score between 63 and 74). The remaining 34.3% ( n = 175) were in the normal range of Internet use. Significant differences emerged, however, in relation to gender. Amongst males, 45.2% ( n = 99) were addicted to the Internet, while 30.1% ( n = 66) had Internet abuse behavior. Among females, 32.1% ( n = 84) were addicted, while 25.6% ( n = 67) abused the Internet. These differences were more specifically highlighted in Table 1 where the t -test comparisons between the two groups and the respective breakdowns in the range of full dependency, abuse and normal Internet use are shown.

Differences in the level of Internet addiction with respect to gender of participants.

In Table 2 below it can be seen that the level of male dependence was higher both in terms of the overall score and in relation to the subscales of Dissociation, Identity and Sexuality and Impact on Real Life, while the manifestation of Addiction Symptoms did not significantly differ between genders ( p > 0.05).

General and specific dimensions of Internet addiction with respect to gender of participants.

Table 3 below presents the descriptive statistics of all the variables used in the study.

Descriptive statistics of the variables.

SE, Standard Error; SD, Standard Deviation.

Table 4 below shows the bivariate correlations between the measures used in the study. It can be seen that there were significant associations with both the Codependency scale (0.347 ** ) and the Impulsivity scale (0.349 ** ). More specifically for the latter measure, Internet Addiction reported correlations with the subscale of the Attentional Impulsiveness (0.379 ** ) and Motor Impulsiveness (0.365 ** ), while the association with the subscale of non-planning was not significant.

Bivariate correlations.

** Correlation is significant at the 0.01 level (2-tailed). * Correlation is significant at the 0.05 level (2-tailed).

For Age Spearman's correlation has been used. Pearson's for the other variables.

In order to identify predictors of Internet addiction, a hierarchical regression was performed on the variables of Codependency and Impulsivity. The preliminary verifications of the regression assumptions excluded the presence of multivariate outliers. Mardia's multivariate kurtosis index (62.33) was in fact below the critical value [ p ( p + 2) = 99]; therefore, the relationship between the variables can be considered substantially linear. Low co-linearity was indicated by the low variance inflation factor (VIF) values <2 and high tolerance values > 0.60. For verification of the assumptions on the residuals, the average between the standardized and raw residuals was equal to 0; the Durbin–Watson test had a value of 1.96 and was therefore indicative of the absence of autocorrelation.

A hierarchical multiple regression was run to determine if the addition of Codependency, Impulsivity, Age, and Gender improved the prediction of the Internet Addiction. The full model resulted statistically significant, R 2 = 0.289, F(4,480) = 48.119, p < 0.001; adjusted R 2 = 0.283.The regression model included Codependency and Impulsivity at step 1, Age at step 2, Gender at step 3. The results of the hierarchical multiple linear regressions are presented in Table 5 . In the regression model, with Internet Addiction as outcome variable, Codependency and Impulsivity jointly explained a 22% portion of the outcome variability. Adding Age at the second step provided a significant improvement in the explained variance, which reached 26%. By adding Gender at the third step, the explained variance further significantly increased to 29%. Standardized beta values were significant. with a positive sign for Codependency, Impulsivity, Age, and a negative sign for Gender. The order reflects the relative importance assigned to each predictor. Since this study intended to give special emphasis as a predictor to codependency, agreeing with what has been argued in this regard in the recent literature cited above, this variable appears to have taken precedence in the entry over that of impulsivity, which is dominant in the less recent literature. As a third consideration, age was included, with respect to which some studies reported an inverse association with the level of addiction ( 70 – 72 ), while others reiterated the linear direction with increasing levels of Internet addiction ( 73 – 75 ). It was interesting to understand what the predictive relationship between age and problematic internet use might be in the sample of young adults considered. Finally, the gender variable was included, which according to other studies is predictive of different male and female susceptibility to problematic and pathological internet use. Thus, it was deemed that the four variables, considered in this order of entry into the predictive model, could provide a significant explanatory portion of the phenomenon under study.

Results of hierarchical linear regression analyses.

N = 481; β = standardized beta value.

*** p ≤ 0.001.

The present study was aimed to evaluate the importance of Internet abuse and dependence in a sample of young adults and it aimed to clarify the possible role of impulsivity, codependency, gender and age in explaining Internet addiction. Among the instruments in the Italian context to measure Internet addiction, the UADI , although not recent, has been preferred over others such as the Generalized Problematic Internet Use Scale-2 [GPIUS-2, ( 76 ); Italian valid. ( 77 )] or the classic Internet Addiction Test [IAT, ( 1 ); Italian valid ( 78 )], because, in addition to having in other studies confirmed good psychometric properties ( 79 – 83 ), it allowed us to assess two dimensions not present in the other instruments mentioned above, and which we considered significant for their possible association with the impulsivity and codependency variables, namely dissociation experiences and identity manipulations on the web. First of all, the results showed a substantial percentage of young people in the addiction phase (one third of the total sample). Moreover, another third of the sample demonstrated Internet abuse behavior. This clearly indicates that there was an issue of control over the use of the Internet among the young adults involved. Nevertheless, we recognize that there might be an overestimation, especially referred to the classification of “abuse” of the Internet. This can be due to the fact that the instrument was originally carried out in 2005 when the average use of the Internet and social networks was still limited. Over the years, we have seen a significant increase in the use of the Internet, especially among young people, due to a natural expansion of connectivity possibilities and as a normal evolution of a behavior of consultation and search for information. Moreover, the use of messaging for interactions with friends and acquaintances has also highly increased. Another aspect that should definitely be considered is that the UADI does not differentiate between different forms of addiction (smartphone, social media, cybersex, game addiction), while it measures a general prevalence of addiction. In light of current developments, we believe there is a need to provide adequate distinctions between different types of addiction and to differentiate areas affected by possible problems. Considering that the administrations took place after the period of greatest impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in Italy ( 84 ) which, as we know, imposed a prolonged isolation and reduction in direct contacts, it is probable that these percentages are affected by the impact of social isolation ( 85 , 86 ) and that this has contributed to a compensatory search on the Internet. The results are, however, similar to the findings of the study by Salarvand et al. ( 87 ), also conducted with university students. Consulting the existing literature related to the period of COVID-19 lockdown (the same period in which we conducted our survey), has shown that the rates of general addiction increased as compared to the pre-COVID period. For example, the study of Burkauskas et al. ( 88 ) has shown that Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) has increased 1.6 times (compared to the pre-COVID period) while the prevalence of the Problematic Internet USE (PIU) has increased 1.5 times. The same increase (1.6 times) during the COVID-19 pandemic of PIU has been also remarked by ( 89 ) in both adults and young people. This increase is particularly critical among young people as pointed out by several studies. For example, Zhao et al. ( 90 ) estimated the PIU prevalence rate in a sample of university students to be 28.4%, while a Swiss study by Mohler-Kuo et al. ( 91 ) estimated the PIU prevalence rate to be 21.3% for young adults.

Of particular interest, however, is the recent meta-analysis by Meng et al. ( 92 ), which includes 504 studies from 64 countries conducted before November 2021 and from which the importance of the varying incidence of specific modes of Internet addiction can be clearly understood. The study reports prevalence estimates of 26.99% (95% CI, 22.73–31.73) for smartphone addiction, 17.42% (95% CI, 12.42–23.89) for social media addiction, 14.22% (95% CI, 12.90–15.65) for Internet addiction, 8.23% (95% CI, 5.75–11.66) for cybersex addiction, and 6.04% (95% CI, 4.80–7.57) for game addiction.

Underlying the differences in prevalence estimates among the studies should certainly be noted the incidence of the instrument used. In our case, the results reported using the UADI-2 suffer from a lack of classificatory articulation and a normative update that may be reflected in some overestimation of problematic incidence.

However, in the enforced form of preventive isolation, a vicious circle is created that pushes people to seek comfort, entertainment, distraction and relief on the Internet, putting aside the real discomforts, which in this way are not resolved and addressed ( 93 ). In other words, the Internet acts as a deterrent and an escape route for people who experience difficulties in socializing in real life. Due to character traits such as shyness or situations of social isolation, the use of new technologies and social networks seem to become a privileged source of intense and satisfying emotions and sensations, albeit originating from entirely virtual dimensions, so that the Internet can represent a means of escaping from everyday reality and taking refuge in an illusory and gratifying world, in which the virtual element makes it possible to overcome the difficulties and inhibitions that can characterize real interactions, thus triggering pathological mechanisms that severely affect the social relationships, the financial situation and the mental health of the people involved ( 92 ).

Internet addictions are more frequent in people with a basic emotional fragility. They are triggered in people who are already experiencing psychological difficulties such as depression, obsessive-compulsive disorders and anxiety disorders ( 94 ). The immoderate and improper use of mobile phones and the Internet not only can cause huge gaps between people, but can also lead them to withdraw into themselves, to develop relational insecurities or a fear of rejection, to feel inadequate and in need of support, even if this is external and for its own sake. It should not be forgotten that among these forms of addiction, there is also the so-called ludopathy, i.e., addiction to games and gambling, to which mobile devices also contribute on a large scale ( 95 , 96 ).

Our results underline the male prevalence of Internet addiction, in line with other studies carried out during the same period ( 97 , 98 ). Regarding gender differences, the literature indicates that men are generally attracted to sex sites and online games. Women are more likely to spend time flirting in chat rooms. Men prefer visual stimuli and focused on sexual experiences, while women are more focused on relationships and interactions ( 99 – 102 ). These features are congruent with the findings regarding gender comparisons of the UADI-2 addiction scale components. The significantly higher score on the dissociation scale for males is associated with increased gaming [see also ( 103 – 105 )], whereas the score on the identity and sexuality scale is more likely to relate to behavior related to searching the Internet for sexually oriented content or masking one's identity in chat rooms or role-playing games [see also ( 106 , 107 )]. While no gender differences were found with regard to the manifestation of specific addiction-related symptoms, the negative impact on real life (work, study, social relationships, general wellbeing) was greater for males.

The analysis of the bivariate correlations clearly confirmed both the association with impulsiveness and that with codependency. The subsequent hierarchical regression also confirmed the hypothesis of the present study. In terms of the weights of the regression coefficients, impulsivity remains the main predictor (β = 0.312), as indicated by most of the above literature, but it is flanked by co-dependency, which shows a regressive weight just below the former (β = 0.275).

To the best of our knowledge, the only study that explicitly relates codependency to Internet addiction is that of Shishkov et al. ( 53 ). Their contribution shows that higher levels of Internet addiction were associated with an increase in codependency. Although the authors do not carry out a regression analysis, but limit themselves to correlation associations, they comment on the results, pointing out that the prerequisites for Internet addiction as well as for codependency are in the family.

In contrast to the study of Shishkov et al., in which both Internet addiction and codependency were greater in younger individuals, our results show the opposite trend: within the 18–30 age group, it is the older participants who are more dependent, both on the Internet and in terms of relationships. This result is particularly relevant as it raises interesting questions about the potential extension of addiction problems into the fully adult age group.

Some confirmation with respect to the age trend involved in such issues comes from studies that have recently focused on the Internet addiction of workers and professionals ( 108 – 111 ). Other studies also point out the association between Internet addiction (in both adults and young adults) with depression ( 43 , 112 – 114 ), hyperactivity and attention deficit ( 115 – 119 ).

The prevalence of Internet addiction in the adults leads us to consider the growing incidence of attention disorders such as ADHD in this age group. Although ADHD is a disorder that begins in childhood, if it is not recognized and properly treated, it can develop into adult ADHD. Although hyperactivity often tends to diminish over time, emotional restlessness and instability in interpersonal relations sometimes persist, together with difficulty in organizing oneself and managing several tasks in parallel ( 120 – 123 ); attention difficulties persist, manifesting themselves as difficulties in tasks such as keeping appointments and meeting deadlines. These consequences negatively affect different aspects of the adult's life, often leading to financial and work difficulties, interpersonal and relationship problems ( 124 , 125 ). The significant association and predictive estimation, which emerged in our study, of motor and attentional impulsiveness with Internet addiction, suggests that at the basis of this addiction there may also be problems of attention and impulse management that can be traced back to adult ADHD.

As regards codependency, this predictor usually includes personal relationship problems, also within the family context. We found only one study that explicitly considered family functioning, attentional impulsivity and Internet addiction in a sample of young adults in a single explanatory model ( 43 ). In this model, attentional impulsivity is proposed as a mediator of the relationship between family functioning and Internet addiction. Although our study does not test this mediation, it has shed light to the role of these predictors in explaining Internet addiction.

Practical implications of the study

Once some of the possible significant predictors have been identified, it seems appropriate to identify the containment interventions to be put in place. In this regard, the review by Xu et al. ( 126 ) on psychological interventions on Internet addiction suggests the formation of targeted and personalized intervention programmes. For impulsivity, which has been proposed as a potential indicator and treatment target of Internet addiction ( 127 , 128 ), The Reality Therapy approach is suggested to assist individuals in controlling their behavior and making alternative Internet-related choices ( 129 ). Reality therapy is based on choice theory, which holds that people are in charge of their lives and what they do, feel, and think ( 126 , 130 ). It focuses on goal-directed choices and self-control, which are very important aspects for young people ( 131 , 132 ) directly by assisting individuals in reflecting on their behaviors, evaluating their options, and planning to choose more effective options ( 130 , 133 ). Reality therapy may help people with addictions and impulsivity issues improve their self-control and reduce problem behaviors. Despite the fact that there have been very few studies of Internet addiction intervention using reality therapy alone, this method has been linked to improved self-esteem. Similar effects have been observed in studies of reality therapy for substance abuse ( 134 , 135 ). Although more research is needed, preliminary findings suggest that reality therapy may play a role in the treatment of Internet addiction ( 130 ). Because good family functioning was linked to a lower risk of experiencing Internet addiction, family factors may be important targets for Internet addiction interventions ( 136 ). Family therapy is not a specific process, but rather a set of interventions aimed at improving family functions and relationships rather than directly addressing addictive behaviors. The therapies are designed to improve communication and relationships while shifting psychological needs fulfillment away from the internet and toward interactions and building relationships with family members ( 137 , 138 ). Shek et al. ( 139 , 140 ) used a combination of motivational interviewing and family-based therapy. Participants reported less Internet addiction and improved family functioning.

Since our study reveals the predictive role of codependency, and this is certainly associated with problems of poor relationship functioning, it can be assumed that both family therapy and other interventions or compound approaches may help. Mindfulness-oriented recovery enhancement (MORE), for example, combines mindfulness training with cognitive restructuring (the process of learning to identify and modify maladaptive thoughts through methods such as logical disputation) ( 141 ). Some studies have looked into combining two different psychosocial treatments. According to Yao et al. ( 142 ), combining reality therapy and mindfulness meditation had a significant effect on Internet gaming disorder.

Given that an inverse relationship between internet addiction and information literacy has emerged in several studies ( 143 – 145 ), further preventive and restraining interventions could include ad hoc media and information literacy enhancement programs, which have been found to be effective in addressing other youth issues such as various addictions ( 146 – 148 ), doping consumption in sports ( 149 , 150 ), eating disorders ( 151 – 153 ), ciberbullismo ( 154 , 155 ), youth aggressiveness and deviant behaviours ( 156 , 157 ).

With regard to the above-mentioned interventions, it should be noted that since most of them are conducted with small groups of adolescents, it remains open to question the extent of their effectiveness with a different target group such as young adults and adults. For example, both adult co-dependency and adult hyperactivity problems would require further experimentation, taking into account the different contexts and the actual limitations/opportunities of the current living conditions. Further research and implementation of targeted and customized programmes will certainly be necessary.

Limitations of the study

Our findings should be interpreted while acknowledging some limitations. First, the sample size for this study was small and the statistical power can be affected. This limitation was due to the difficulty of getting more students involved in the study during the COVID-19 emergency, but we believe that future studies could benefit from a larger sample size and selecting participants from other parts of the country. Second, the participants in our sample were all university students. This choice was made bearing in mind the results of recent meta-analyses conducted in different countries that have shown a high prevalence of Internet addiction in this population [e.g., ( 87 , 158 , 159 )] and have raised the urgence to orientate policy strategies to this emerging issue for young adults. However future research will be needed to replicate these findings in other groups. Third, it should considered that the UADI-2 instrument does not differentiate between different forms of addiction (smartphone, social media, cybersex, game addiction) and the measure is indicative of a general prevalence, which in light of current developments, would instead need a specific distinction to adequately and differentially define the areas affected by possible problematicness. Furthermore, results reported may reflect some overestimation of problematic incidence due to this lack of classificatory articulation and normative update since the moment of validation of the instrument UADI-2 carried out in 2005. In addition, future studies could include more variables (such as socio-economic status, including clinical data as depression, anxiety, feeling of loneliness, interpersonal issues, maladaptive cognitions) and more covariates variables. Finally, it was a cross-sectional study, therefore, causalities could not be entirely clarified.

This study investigates the role and predictive weight of impulsivity and codependency on Internet addiction on a sample of young adult university students by using a hierarchical regression analysis. The results confirmed that both impulsivity and codependency play a role in problems related to Internet use, moreover they showed the relative importance of gender and age. The study demonstrated that maladaptive and addicted use of the Internet is a critical issue also among young adults, and it suggests that preventive and restraint measures are needed. These can include not only targeted awareness programs, but also interventions aimed at encouraging a greater emotional and attentional control and a more balanced management of personal relationships among young people.

Data availability statement

Ethics statement.

The studies involving human participants were reviewed and approved by Institutional Review Board of the University of Cassino and Southern Lazio. The participants provided their written informed consent to participate in this study.

Author contributions

PD, SM, and SC designed the study and drafted the manuscript. PD, SM, SC, and ADR analyzed the data and discussed the results. EC, LG, and AC revised the manuscript. All authors contributed to the article and approved the submitted version.

Conflict of interest

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Publisher's note

All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article, or claim that may be made by its manufacturer, is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.

Essay on Internet Addiction in English

Table of Contents

Internet is an amazing invention. It serves as an abundant source of information and entertainment. However, as useful as it is, it is also proving to be equally hazardous. Many people around the world have grown addicted to it and are suffering from the dangerous consequences of this addiction.

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Long and Short Essay on Internet Addiction in English

Here are essay on Internet Addiction of varying lengths to help you with the topic in your exam.

These Internet Addiction essay are written in simple language to let you easily understand the subject.

After going through the essay you will be able to explain Internet Addiction, how are smart phones related to internet addiction, causes and symptoms of internet addiction, consequences of internet addiction and also how to get rid of internet addiction.

So, go ahead and find a best essay on this topic for you:

Short Essay on Internet Addiction 150 words

Internet addiction is a growing problem in today’s digital world. This issue involves spending so much time online that it starts to harm other important parts of life, like health, relationships, work, or school performance.

People addicted to the internet may feel a constant need to be online. They could be drawn by activities like gaming, social networking, browsing, or watching videos. This addiction can cause sleep problems, tiredness, and weight changes. It might make people feel lonely, sad, or anxious when they’re not connected.

It’s crucial to find a balance. Spending time with friends, playing outside, and joining clubs or sports can help. If someone can’t control their internet use, talking to a counselor or doctor is a good idea. They can provide advice and support to overcome this challenge. Healthy internet use means using technology as a tool to make life better, not letting it control us.

Short Essay on Internet Addiction 200 words – Sample 1

Internet addiction is a new age addiction which is known to have gripped people around the world. Several people belonging to different age groups have been affected by this addiction; though, it is more prevalent among the youth. People turn to internet to find solace, kill boredom and bring in some fun in their lives. However, before they know they grow addicted to it.

Internet is a huge source of entertainment and it is hard to resist the addictive stuff it has to offer. However, it is essential to keep a check on your internet use to ensure you do not get addicted to it. This is because just like other types of addiction, this one also has grave consequences. It has a major impact on a person’s brain function. Many internet addicts develop anxiety issues and depression. People lose sense of time and neglect their work. This hampers their professional growth. Their physical health also deteriorates. They incur health problems such as obesity, heart disease and hypertension.

They get so addicted to the internet that they tend to ignore their loved ones. They prefer talking to people online and develop close ties with them. This strains their personal relationships and causes unhappiness.

In order to lead a happy and wholesome life it is important to stay away from such addictions.

Essay on Internet Addiction: It is Increasing Day by Day 300 words – Sample 2

The number of internet users around the world is increasing drastically with every passing day and so is the number of internet addicts. The world of internet is extremely alluring. Video games, chat rooms, social media platforms, entertainment videos, engrossing web series and interesting blogs can keep a person hooked for hours. Many people begin to use internet as a means to overcome loneliness and boredom and get addicted to it within no time.

Introduction of Smart Phones Responsible for Growing Internet Addiction

Around a decade back when internet could only be accessed on desktop and laptop, the internet usage was limited. Many people were still addicted to it. They spent several hours in front of their systems surfing internet. Many people frequently visited cyber cafes to access internet. However, the situation wasn’t as bad as it is today.

The introduction of smart phones has given internet access to large number of people. Smart phones are said to be one of the major causes of internet addiction in today’s times. People are seen glued to internet even as they travel or attend a social event. Some of them are obsessed with chatting apps, others are addicted to gaming while yet others are busy updating and checking their social media accounts.

The introduction of various kinds of web series has increased internet addiction. It is an easy source of entertainment and extremely addictive. Binge watching web series is quite common among people around the world. Internet addicts forget to eat, complete important tasks, and ignore their loved ones. All they want is a high speed internet connection and a device to access it. This is straining their personal relationships and hampering their work.

Internet addiction is a serious disorder that blurs a person’s ability to think rationally. Even though internet addicts know the harmful consequences of this addiction and begin to feel the heat they do not make much effort to overcome it. This often leads to serious problems such as depression, anxiety and other mental health disorders.

Essay on Internet Addiction: Signs and Causes 400 words – Sample 3

Internet addiction has been identified as an impulse control disorder. It is damaging the mental health of the addicts and also impacting their physical health negatively. People develop internet addiction due to various reasons. It is important to identify the warning signs of internet addiction and try to overcome it.

Signs of Internet Addiction

Here are some of the warning signs of internet addiction:

Internet over Everything

When a person gives priority to internet over other things such as work, study, play, and relationships, it is a sure sign that he is addicted to internet. Internet addicts spend most time of their time online. They even forget to eat and sleep.

Feeling of Restlessness and Emptiness

Internet addicts feel restless and a sense of emptiness surrounds them when they do not have access to internet. They feel a constant urge to surf internet and indulge in different activities online.

Too much screen time can blur the mind. Indulging in mindless activities online for several hours can cause a similar impact. This in turn causes dizziness.

Frequent Mood Swings

Many internet addicts experience frequent mood swings. It makes them feel vulnerable and impacts their work as well as relationships.

Procrastination

Internet addicts indulge in different useless activities online. Even though they know, they should do something productive, they aren’t able to. They procrastinate when it comes to studying, completing office assignments, doing household chores and other important tasks.

Causes of Internet Addiction

Most people begin to surf internet for hours as it serves as an escape from their day to day problems. Many people are shy and hesitant to talk to people around. They aren’t able to make friends in the real world. They turn to the internet and make friends online. It provides them the emotional support that is missing in their lives. Likewise, many people start watching web series and viral videos others indulge in gaming to fill the void in their life.

Little do they know that the things they are using as a comfort will soon cause discomfort which they will find hard to overcome. While internet soothes our mind and serves as a good distraction from our day to day problems, it can prove to be fatal as we grow addicted to it.

People grow addicted to internet because of various reasons. If you see the warning signs of internet addiction in a friend or family member, you must help them overcome it. Support from loved ones makes it easier to overcome an addiction.

Essay on Internet Addiction: Ways to Get Rid of Internet Addiction 500 words – Sample 4

Internet addiction is often compared to pathological gambling. It does not involve the use of a substance such as drug or alcohol but is as bad as them. Internet addicts stay glued to the internet for most part of the day. They indulge in various activities online and cut off completely from the real world. Just like any other type of addiction, it is hard to get rid of the internet addiction. However, if one is hard pressed on leaving it then he can overcome it in due course of time.

Ways to Get Rid of Internet Addiction

Here are some ways to get rid of internet addiction:

Identify the Cause

Unless you understand the cause of your internet addiction, you will not be able to find the way to get rid of the problem. The reason why you surf the internet for most part of the day may be to kill boredom, seek emotional support, seek companionship or distract yourself from some problem. You need to identify what it is exactly. As you begin to heal that issue, you shall be able to overcome your internet addiction as well.

Support from Friends and Family

Your friends and family members always have your back. Discuss about your growing internet addiction with them and how you wish to get rid of it. They will be more than willing to help you overcome this problem. Spend more time with your family members. Talk to them, help them with different tasks and indulge in fun activities together to keep your mind off the internet. Similarly, visit your friends or call them over frequently as you try to get rid of internet addiction. You will be able to overcome this addiction over the time with their support.

Indulge in Physical Activity

Exercising is a great way to relax your mind and feel positive. If you are growing addicted to internet to keep stress and anxiety at bay then replace this toxic habit with exercising. As you exercise, your body releases endorphins that promote a feeling of happiness. You no longer feel the need to rely on internet to get that feeling of euphoria.

Seek Professional Help

There are expert therapists who provide professional guidance to help overcome internet addiction. It is suggested to seek help from one of these. They will take you through a series of steps to get rid of this addiction. The Center for Internet Addiction provides adequate information about this disorder. It also offers effective treatment options for internet addicts.

Reprogram Your Subconscious Mind

Our subconscious mind directs our behaviour to a large extent. If you are addicted to the internet and are unable to overcome it then you must start by reprogramming your subconscious mind. Get into a state of relaxation and command your subconscious mind to stop using the internet excessively. Do this repeatedly with faith and see how it helps you overcome the problem.

It is easy to develop an addiction but quite difficult to overcome it. You will have to make good amount of effort and stay determined to get over internet addiction. The key is not to give up even when the road ahead seems tough.

Long Essay on Internet Addiction 600 words – Sample 5

Many people around the world are facing the problem of compulsive internet use. They spend most part of their day surfing the internet even as they know it is a completely futile activity that is messing with their mind. Internet addiction is as bad as any other addiction. People addicted to internet neglect their health, work and relationships and often end up lonely and depressed.

Internet Addiction among Youth

Internet addiction is more common among the youth. They feel a constant urge to use internet. They constantly scroll through different websites, watch random videos, chat with friends online, indulge in online shopping and involve in various other activities online. As they grow addicted to the internet, they begin to lose interest in real life activities. They prefer indulging in online activities only.

They develop low mental resilience and also become socially awkward. Many youngsters these days aren’t able to interact well with others. They avoid social events and prefer making friends and relationships online. Many of them develop social anxiety.

Internet addiction hampers their studies. Internet addicts are unable to concentrate on their assignments. They neglect their studies and lose interest in sports. All they want to do is surf the internet.

It is unfortunate that parents give smart phones to their kids at a very early age. The world of internet is new and fascinating for them. They quickly get addicted to it. The time that should spend in studying and other constructive activities is wasted on the internet.

Similarly, many young working professionals are also addicted to internet. At an age when they should concentrate on building their career, they waste most of their time online. Internet addiction is spoiling the future of the youth. It is impacting their growth and development.

Consequences of Internet Addiction

Internet addiction can prove to be extremely hazardous. It deteriorates one’s mental health, social well being as well as physical health. Here is how it impacts a person on various levels:

Impact on Mental Health

Continuous use of internet slows the brain’s ability to grasp things and concentrate. Internet addicts crave to get back to the internet and are unable to focus on work at hand. This decreases their productivity. Inability to access internet causes irritability and anger. These people often develop behavioural issues.

Research shows that people addicted to the internet are more likely to develop anxiety issues and depression.

Impact on Social Well-being

Internet addicts spend most of their time online. They avoid interacting with people in the real world and also do not indulge in real activities. This impacts their social life. They become socially awkward and soon begin to feel isolated.

Impact on Physical Health

Internet addicts begin to lead a sedentary life. They just sit and surf the internet almost all day long. This begins to take a toll on their physical health. They become overweight which puts them at a risk of incurring various serious illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, stroke and diabetes.

Withdrawal Symptoms

Internet addicts experience withdrawal symptoms as they try to get rid of internet addiction. These are quite similar to those experienced by drug addicts. They feel restless, anxious and angry when they are offline. Their stress levels sore high and they wish to get back to the internet. It can be difficult to handle this emotional upheaval. However, it can be managed with professional help and the support of loved ones.

It is important to identify the warning signs of internet addiction and treat it. However, it is important to understand that it takes time to get over it. Don’t force yourself or your loved one to leave it at once. Doing so will create more problems rather than curbing any.

Internet addiction is a serious problem. It should not be dismissed casually. It is important to get rid of this addiction in order to lead a healthy and fulfilling life.

FAQs on Essay on Internet Addiction

What are the main causes of internet addiction.

The main causes of internet addiction include loneliness, the need for escape from reality, the thrill of online social connections, or the habit of procrastination.

What is internet addiction in students?

Internet addiction in students occurs when excessive time spent online negatively impacts academic performance, physical health, or social interactions.

Who suffers from internet addiction?

Anyone can suffer from internet addiction, regardless of age, gender, or background. It's common in people seeking an escape from stress or those who rely heavily on digital platforms for social interactions.

Why is the Internet harmful to students?

The Internet can be harmful to students if it distracts them from studies, disrupts their mental health with negative online experiences, or leads to poor physical health due to sedentary habits.

What are three negative effects of Internet addiction?

Decline in personal relationships
Decrease in productivity or academic performance
Physical health issues like eye strain or lack of physical activity

When did Internet addiction start?

Internet addiction started gaining attention in the late 1990s, with the rise of home internet access and online gaming communities.

How can we prevent Internet addiction?

Preventing internet addiction involves setting screen time limits, engaging in offline hobbies, maintaining a healthy social life, and seeking professional help if control over internet use is lost.

What is the biggest effect of the internet?

The biggest effect of the internet is its profound impact on communication, information accessibility, and the way it has interconnected the world, influencing virtually every aspect of modern life.

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Essay on Internet Addiction

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Internet addiction in young adults: The role of impulsivity and codependency

Stefania Mancone

Elisa Cavicchiolo

Laura Girelli

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