Internet to addivtion Essay Example

is associated with an uncontrollable desire, lack of control, obsession with use, and continued engagement despite negative consequences. Conversely, abuse is considered a milder form of addiction in which individuals have more self-control and can establish limits. However, both Internet addiction and abuse can lead to repercussions. For example, a student who excessively communicates with friends online during school hours deprives themselves of important study time, ultimately leading to academic underachievement.

The Internet can be misused during work hours, leading to decreased job productivity and potential job loss. Engaging in online pornography at work is an example of internet abuse with serious consequences. Although not necessarily indicating addiction, these actions highlight the negative effects of general patterns of internet misuse. This article examines how internet abuse affects marital, academic, and job-related issues as the internet becomes more integrated into our lives.

The article defines Internet addiction and its consequences from a clinical perspective. It discusses the impact of online affairs on relationships, student Internet abuse on academic performance, and employee Internet misuse. Future research and practice areas for this emerging phenomenon are also addressed.

The concept of technological addictions (Griffith, 1996) and computer addiction (Shoot, 1991) has been examined in England. However, when Internet addiction was initially presented in 1996 at the Annual Meeting of the American Psychological Association (Young, 1996), it ignited a contentious discussion among clinicians and academics. In contrast to substance dependency, the Internet provides numerous advantages as a progressive development in our society and should not be condemned as "addictive" (Levy, 1996).

The Internet has various advantages, such as conducting research, business transactions, accessing libraries, and communicating with colleagues. It is

also beneficial for making vacation plans. Numerous books have discussed the psychological and functional benefits of the Internet in our daily lives (Rheingold, 1993; Turtle, 1995). In contrast to this, chemical dependence does not affect our professional lives nor provide any direct advantage. Some researchers argue that addiction should only pertain to drug ingestion (e.g., Archaic, 1990; Walker, 1989). However, this definition has expanded to include behaviors like compulsive gambling, video game playing, overeating, exercise addiction,
love relationships,
and excessive television viewing. The term "Internet addiction" gained recognition as a valid disorder through peer-reviewed literature during the past decade (e.g., Ferris,
2001;
Greenfield,
1999;
Hansen,
2002).
Nevertheless,due to extensive promotion of the internet as a technological tool,it can be difficult to identify and diagnose addiction.
Therefore,it is crucial to understand the criteria distinguishing normal internet use from pathological use.
However,the lack of accepted criteria for diagnosing this condition in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th edition) published by
the American Psychiatric Association
in 1994 creates challenges.

According to Young (1996), compulsive Internet use is similar to pathological gambling, an impulse-control disorder unrelated to substance abuse. Pathological gambling involves the following criteria:

1. Do you constantly think about the Internet, recalling past online activities or eagerly anticipating your next online session?
2. Do you feel a strong urge to spend increasing amounts of time on the Internet in order to feel fulfilled?
3. Have you repeatedly tried and failed to control, reduce, or stop your Internet usage?
4. [Missing content]

If you feel restless, moody, depressed, or irritable when attempting to decrease or quit using the Internet; if you go beyond your original intentions and spend more time online; if you have jeopardized a significant relationship, job, education, or career opportunity because of

the Internet; if you have lied to your family members, therapists, or others in order to conceal how much time you spend on the Internet; if you use the Internet as a way to avoid problems or improve a negative mood (such as feelings of helplessness, guilt, anxiety, or depression), then these could be signs of excessive internet usage.

Evaluation of computer/Lenten usage should only consider nonessential activities (e.g., enviousness or inconsiderate use). Addiction is determined when clients answer affirmatively to five or more questions within a 6-month period. This list identifies signs of compulsive Internet use, but these indicators can often be concealed by cultural norms that promote and reinforce its utilization. Even if an individual meets all eight criteria, instances of abuse can be justified as "I need this for my job" or "It's just a machine," while the reality is that the Internet is causing significant problems in their life. While time alone does not directly contribute to diagnosing Internet addiction, addicts are typically consumed by their online usage, spending anywhere from 40 to 80 hours per week, sometimes engaging in sessions lasting up to 20 hours. Sleep patterns are disrupted due to late-night logins, with addicts often staying up surfing until 2:00, 3:00, or even 4:00 in the morning despite having early morning work or school commitments. In extreme cases, caffeine pills are used to extend internet browsing sessions.

Lack of sleep not only causes extreme fatigue, impeding academic or work performance and weakening the immune system, but also makes individuals more susceptible to diseases. Additionally, excessive computer use without physical activity increases the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome for

addicts. Similar to alcoholics who need more alcohol to feel satisfied, internet addicts spend a significant amount of time on their online activities.

Moreover, internet addicts make significant efforts to hide their online activities in order to conceal the complete scope and nature of their behavior. In instances of impulse-control disorder, individuals frequently encounter heightened discomfort and restlessness linked to their compulsion. This discomfort is relieved by engaging in the desired behavior. For instance, an individual addicted to alcohol feels an urge to drink, while those with eating disorders feel compelled to overeat when experiencing tension. These compulsive behaviors function as a way to alleviate underlying emotional stress and serve as a reward for future actions.

The use of computers by individuals addicted to the Internet goes beyond being information tools - they are a means of escaping from life problems. Although these benefits are temporary, addictions still serve a purpose for the person. The main reason behind Internet addiction is the anonymity provided by electronic transactions, creating a virtual environment that allows people to escape emotional difficulties like stress, depression, and anxiety, as well as personal challenges such as job burnout, academic issues, unemployment, and marital discord. When online addicts cannot access the Internet, they experience withdrawal symptoms and strong thoughts of needing it. While addictions may have their advantages initially, they ultimately harm a person's life. One notable consequence of online addiction is the prevalence of online affairs which negatively affect long-term marriages.

Young (1999) defines a cybercafe as a relationship that begins online and is predominantly sustained through electronic conversations like e-mail, chat rooms, or interactive games. These virtual communities enable individuals

to connect with strangers from any location and at any time, fostering an environment conducive to online affairs. Despite the wide appeal and advanced features of these platforms, it is crucial to acknowledge the potential relationship challenges associated with internet usage.

According to Young (1998), 53% of Internet addicts surveyed reported serious relationship problems, leading to marital discord, separation, and divorce. Online affairs have distinct differences from real-life affairs and can be even more alluring. The Internet's global nature makes online affairs culturally diverse, making them seem more attractive than familiar acquaintances in daily life (Young, 1998). The use of electronic communication reduces inhibitions and intensifies a sense of closeness.

Online, individuals tend to be more transparent, sincere, and direct in sharing personal truths. The level of intimacy that typically develops in an offline relationship over a long period of time can be achieved online within a matter of days or weeks (Cooper & Spoilsport, 1997; Young, 1997). A casual conversation with a trusted online companion can swiftly transform into an erotic exchange, enabling users to openly divulge their deepest sexual fantasies. Erotic online chats may be accompanied by self-stimulation in order to enhance the overall sexual experience (Young, 1997).

These apparently harmless online relationships can easily escalate into secret phone calls, letters, and offline meetings. Engaging in an online affair to fulfill one's needs can have a negative impact on one's marriage. Therapists are witnessing an increasing number of couples seeking counseling to address issues stemming from online affairs (Young, 1998). In fact, online infidelity is becoming a common cause for divorce. A survey conducted by the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers revealed that

63% of lawyers stated that the Internet has played a significant role in divorce cases they have worked on in the past year (Paul, 2003; Quitter, 1997).

Unlike extramarital affairs, online affairs take place in the comfort of one's own home, sometimes even with an oblivious spouse in the adjacent room. Moreover, unlike catching a spouse engaging in intimate conversations with someone in bed via the computer, detecting an online affair and determining the excessive amount of time spent on the computer can be challenging. A significant change in sleeping patterns is one of the initial indicators. Since chat rooms and virtual meeting spots tend to become active late at night, the cheating partner may gradually extend their bedtime to participate in these activities.

A partner may choose to either sleep in or wake up earlier than usual to use the computer for communicating with a new romantic interest via email. This desire for personal space often indicates the start of an extramarital relationship, whether it happens online or offline. In these cases, individuals typically make significant efforts to hide the truth from their partners, leading to heightened requests for secrecy and privacy when using the computer. For instance, one might move the computer from a visible area to a secluded corner in a locked study. Passwords may also be modified or online activities kept concealed from their significant other.

When someone is disturbed or interrupted while online, they may react defensively or angrily to cover up how much time they spend online. Their other responsibilities are neglected when they spend more time on the Internet (Young, 1998). This behavior doesn't automatically mean they are

addicted to the cyber world. However, in a relationship, if there are dirty dishes, piles of laundry, longer hours at work, and neglected lawns, it may indicate that someone else is vying for the attention and time of the suspected person.

In an online affair, spouses may neglect their household responsibilities due to the excitement and engagement with the computer. There are signs of deception, such as hiding bills for online services and phone calls related to the affair. Additionally, individuals may lie about their reason for extensive internet use. Those involved in a cybercafe affair have a greater incentive to hide their activities. (Young, 1998).

Couples experience conflicts regarding computer usage, and individuals involved in online affairs resort to telling increasingly elaborate lies in order to hide their infidelity. These lies may include promises to their partners about quitting or reducing their time spent on the Internet. This not only damages closeness and trust between partners but also leads to personality changes. It is common for individuals to be shocked and perplexed by the extent to which their partner's moods and behaviors have changed since being consumed by the Internet. A spouse who was once affectionate and empathetic can become distant and unrecognizable (Young, 1998).

If asked about these modifications regarding Internet activities, individuals using cybercafes often react with passionate denials, accusations, and justifications. Whether consciously or not, their objective is to transfer the responsibility onto their partner. For someone who used to be open to discussing controversial topics, this could serve as a camouflage for an online affair. Decreased interest in sexual activities. Certain online affairs may progress to involve phone sex or

physical meetings, but even the act of sharing sexual fantasies online can affect patterns of sexual desire.

If someone includes masturbation in their online chats with a lover, they may start losing interest in engaging in sexual activities with their real-life partner, which could indicate that they have found another outlet for their sexual desires online. Generally, individuals who have online affairs become less enthusiastic, active, and responsive when it comes to physical intimacy with their partner, as they prefer the novelty and thrill of virtual sexual stimulation (Young, 1998). Additionally, those involved in a cyber affair are likely to have reduced energy for investing in their relationship, which can manifest in various ways.

They avoid traditional rituals like shared baths, post-dinner conversations, and video rentals on Saturday nights. Taking vacations together and discussing long-term plans do not excite them. Instead, they focus on their cybernetic escapades, neglecting to build intimacy with their long-term partner. The revelation of infidelity is challenging for any couple, but when it comes to online affairs, couples worry that the relationship may end because of someone their partner has yet to meet in real life. Disbelief and rationalization are common reactions, with partners going to great lengths to hide the problem from loved ones. Frustration and jealousy might also prompt one person to take control by changing passwords, canceling online services, or even dismantling the computer.

When a partner prioritizes an online relationship over their real-life one, it is natural for the other person to resort to coercive measures in order to regain their attention. This commonly happens when individuals feel threatened by the influence of the Internet on their

relationship. In terms of student internet abuse, schools recognize the Internet as a valuable educational tool and therefore integrate it into their classrooms.

According to a survey, 86% of teachers, librarians, and computer experts believe that the information found on the Internet is disorganized and irrelevant to school curriculum (Barber, 1997). They argue that it does not benefit students and can even serve as a distraction. Another study by Young (1998) found that excessive Internet usage led to poor study habits, low grades, or even failure for 58% of students. College administrators are increasingly recognizing the potential misuse of the educational tool they have invested heavily in. Consequently, colleges are now acknowledging the potential impact of students' Internet usage.

Provost W. Richard Tot investigated the reason behind the dismissal of normally successful students with a SAT score between 1200 and 1300 at Alfred University. Surprisingly, it was found that 43% of these students failed due to excessive late-night logins to the university computer system (Brady, 1996). Similarly, counselors at the University of Texas-Austin observed students who struggled with controlling their Internet usage. A campus study on student Internet abuse revealed that out of the 531 valid responses, 14% met the criteria for Internet addiction (Scorcher, 1997).

According to college counselors, students are more likely to develop an Internet addiction because of the easy access to the internet on campus. This includes computer labs, wired dorms, and mobile devices. The University of Maryland has addressed this issue by creating a support group for affected students (Murphy, 1996), and other campuses have done the same. Given the widespread availability of internet access, it is crucial to explore the

factors that contribute to student internet abuse.

Freshmen who enroll at our college are provided with complimentary perks, including free and unlimited Internet access. Along with their student ID card and meal card, they also receive a personal e-mail account with no required online service fees, allowing them to have unrestricted online hours. Additionally, our computer labs are available 24/7 for the convenience of students. This level of Internet accessibility is often seen as a dream come true for enthusiastic users. As college students typically have a limited number of class hours per week (around 12 to 16), they have plenty of unstructured time to engage in various activities such as reading, studying, socializing, joining clubs, or exploring areas beyond campus boundaries.

College students often prioritize the Internet over other activities, neglecting their responsibilities. With newfound freedom, they indulge in pranks, late-night conversations with friends, intimate relationships, and behaviors that their parents would disapprove of. Currently, they utilize chat rooms and instant messaging to take a break from using the computer as a way to exercise their freedom. Online conversations and actions remain unmonitored and uncensored.

When college students enter the Job world, they might encounter bosses who are suspicious and might peek at their work or monitor their online activities. Even emails to coworkers can be intercepted by unauthorized parties. However, in college, there is no such surveillance. Computer lab monitors are typically student volunteers whose main role is to assist anyone who requires help with Internet usage, rather than enforcing restrictions. The faculty and administrators fully support and encourage the students.

Students are aware that their school's administration and faculty expect them to

utilize the abundant resources available on the Internet. It is rare for students to completely abstain from online use. In certain large classes, professors exclusively distribute required course materials through the Internet and communicate with students solely through email. Naturally, administrators want to ensure that their substantial investments in computers and Internet access are justified. Additionally, there is a concern regarding social intimidation and alienation, considering the large number of students on some campuses, where individuals can easily feel lost in the crowd.

When people attempt to connect with others, they often encounter exclusive groups that are even more exclusive than high school cliques. These groups may assess them based on their appearance or fashion choices. However, they realize that by joining the anonymous online community, they can easily gain popularity and establish new "friendships" not just within their own country but globally as well. This immediate popularity offers them a way to evade feelings of fear, anxiety, and depression. It also enables them to escape from the stress of achieving top grades, meeting parental expectations, and facing intense competition in the job market after graduation.

Due to the increase in the legal drinking age to 21 in several states, undergraduate students have resorted to using the Internet as their primary means of socializing and consuming alcohol. The Internet offers them an unrestricted and anonymous environment that is available at any time. However, this lack of limitations requires students to practice self-discipline. Nevertheless, excessive internet usage can lead to poor academic performance, strained relationships, and parental dissatisfaction upon discovering that their investment in their child's college education is being spent on late-night internet sessions.