What is internet addiction?

Internet addiction is any compulsive use of the internet that causes problems in a persons life. The internet addict will use the internet to the exclusion of normal life activities such as work, family, and friends.

The internet replaces these activities and becomes a compulsive behaviour that completely subsumes the addict's life. It is also known as internet dependency and internet compulsivity.

The people presenting for an addiction treatment program because of their internet addiction are generally at their wits end having discovered that they are in the grip of an addiction and are unable to stop using the internet without assistance.

How do you know if you are an Internet Addict?

• Do you think about what you would be doing online when you're not?
• Have you ever tried to cover up or hide the extent of your internet usage?
• Has anybody asked you to cut back on your internet usage?
• Has using the internet meant that you missed out on something important in your life?
• Does using the internet help you adjust your mood?

If you answered "Yes" to any of these questions then you should consider taking an Internet Addiction self-assessment test such as this one. You should also consult with a properly qualified professional, preferably one who has worked at a rehabilitation (rehab) clinic and is familiar with addiction treatment.

How is Internet Addiction caused?

Internet addiction is similar to other "process" addictions where a person becomes addicted to a behaviour. The internet provides the user with an emotional payoff that they feel they can't find in the offline world. Internet addicts choose to engage in seeking immediate gratification in the online world instead of working at creating meaningful happiness in the offline world. Internet addicts use the internet compulsively and may feel despair knowing that they are dependent on it. A sense of powerlessness pervades the lives of addicts.

Studies conducted by researchers seeking to improve internet addiction treatment methods found that the Internet becomes addictive to users who struggle to feel "normal" intimacy, have large amounts of unstructured time (and feel bored), and lack inhibition while online. These issues can be dealt with in a rehab center through counseling and other psychotherapeutic activities.

What types of Internet Addiction are there?

Addiction to Cybersex (typing sexually explicit messages to a partner) and Cyberporn (pornographic material) are the most common forms of Internet addiction. Pornography is widely available on the internet which is increasing the prevalence of online sexual compulsivity.

Online activities like shopping at eBay and gambling are increasingly becoming abused.

Can Internet Addiction be treated?

Very definitely yes. There are a wide range of treatment options for Internet Addicts such as residential treatment programs, outpatient clinics, and self-help support groups. Treatment will include a similar blend of activities as other addictions: psychotherapy based on a cognitive behavioural paradigm, group therapy, attendence at support groups, sessions with the family, didactic lectures, and the various ancillary therapies designed to address body and spirit. There are several rehabs in South Africa that have treated Internet addicts successfully.

Additional Resources

Center for On-line Addiction has a collection of articles and other resources about this subject.

Psychology of Cyberspace is a downloadable e-book that looks at the relationship dynamics within Internet Addiction.