The internet is a wonderful source of information and entertainment.However, some individuals develop a
problematic relationship with on-line activities that interferes with emotional,
social, financial, occupational functioning.These individuals find themselves spending an inordinate amount of time
on-line and begin to substitute the interaction obtained via the computer in
exchange for face to face human contact.This addiction can disrupt the lives of the individual and their
family.Some may suffer loss of family,
job, and friends as a result of their obsession.
Behaviors of internet
addiction may include but are not limited to:
Feeling an
emotional high while on the computer
May have guilt
feelings while on computer
Inability to
make self stop when you want to
Unsuccessful
attempts to quit or limit time
Lose track of
time when using
Neglect family,
friends, or significant other
Neglect
responsibilities to spend time on-line
Lying to cover
up the time spent on the computer
Feeling angry
or emotional when you can’t get to a computer
Feeling angry
or emotional while interrupted on the computer
Get on-line to
avoid various emotions or to escape
Rely on the
computer for your social needs
Rely on the use
of the computer for sexual gratification
Feel that you
are consumed with thoughts and desires to be on the computer.
