Dear Lifehacker,Is it possible for someone to actually be addicted to the Internet?
I’ve heard of people beingso addicted to video gamesthat they forgot to eat orfeed their kid.
How much of it is real psychology and how much is technophobic hype?
Even so, is it possible to be actually addicted to the Internet?
Luckily, there is a very specific definition.
Dysfunction in these circuits leads to characteristic biological, psychological, social and spiritual manifestations.
This is reflected in an individual pathologically pursuing reward and/or relief by substance use and other behaviors.
Like other chronic diseases, addiction often involves cycles of relapse and remission.
Without treatment or engagement in recovery activities, addiction is progressive and can result in disability or premature death.
They also usually experience serious physical or mental stress when deprived.
This is a simplified take on a complex topic, but you get the point.
For example, someone addicted to online gambling is still addicted togambling.
For now, the DSM-V lists “Internet gaming disorder” as an area worth additional study and research.
Some of that is due tohigh profilecases aroundthe globeof people injured or killed involving video games.
As you mentioned, the Internet content is diverse.
Internet addiction doesnt describe whatever the person is fixated on.
Those individuals were in favor of using the term Internet as a modifier for other conditions.
Similarly, Roger said that it’s important to remember that addictionsaren’tcompulsions.
Compulsions often look strange to laypeople, but they’re a different issue.
Roger elaborated:
The jury is still out on Internet-related disorders/addictions so its too early for specific labels.
Of course, this is a hotly debated topic.
In a few years, we may sing a completely different tune.
it’s possible for you to follow him on Twitter at@rogergil79.
He offered his expertise for this post, and we thank him.
Title image made usingTachyglossus(Shutterstock) andNemo.
Additional photos byMelanie Tata,Michael Mandiberg, andMarcos Mesa Sam Wordley(Shutterstock).
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