Internet Addiction...

  • Addiction is a compulsion to repeat a behaviour regardless of its consequences.
  • Internet Addiction refers to any online-related compulsive behaviour that interferes with a normal living and causes severe stress on the afflicted individual and those who are close to the person.
  • It is described as an impulse-control behaviour/disorder which is similar to pathological gambling and sexual addiction.
  • Addicts do not regard the internet merely as an information or communication tool, nor do they utilise it solely for enjoyment. Instead use the internet as a means to escape from their problems while they spend time online.

Symptoms of Internet Addiction include

  • Preoccupation with the Internet
  • Frequent thoughts about previous online activity
  • Anticipation of the next online session
  • Observable increase in the amount of time spent on the Internet in order to achieve satisfaction

Withdrawal symptoms include

  • feelings of restlessness, moodiness, depression or irritability when attempt to reduce internet time

Internet Addiction Test (from netaddiction.com)

Some strategies to prevent or counter Internet Addiction

  • Keep the computer in a place accessible by all, where monitoring internet usage is easy
  • Agree to time limit for internet use outside school hours
  • Be involved and interested in the youth's surfing
  • Parents could spend more quality time with the youth away from the internet, pursue common interests/hobbies/sports
  • Schools track students' internet usage, keep a record of all the sites visited and install filters

Source: The Offline Guide for the Online Generation