Understanding and Addressing Internet Addiction in Family

In today's digital age, Internet overuse—often termed Internet Addiction Disorder (IAD), problematic computer use, or pathological computer use—has become a growing concern for many families. This excessive computer use can interfere with daily life, blurring the lines between productive use and detrimental habits.

What is Internet Addiction Disorder?

IAD refers to excessive computer use that disrupts daily life. Activities such as compulsive gambling, shopping, and social networking are called net compulsions when performed online. Other activities like gaming or excessive browsing become problematic when they interfere with normal life functions. IAD can be divided into subtypes based on specific activities, including excessive gaming, viewing pornography, and over-involvement in online communities.

The Internet and Children

The amount of time children spend online is a significant concern for many parents. Initially, the Internet was welcomed into homes for its educational benefits. However, many parents quickly realized that their children were spending hours instant messaging, playing online games, or chatting with strangers, rather than focusing on schoolwork or research.

Balancing entertainment media and other activities has always been challenging for parents, and the Internet has made this even more difficult. The engaging nature of online communication and interactive games makes it hard for children and teens to keep track of time while online.

Children who are unpopular or shy with their peers often find solace in creating new identities in online communities. Boys, in particular, are frequent users of online role-playing games, where they assume new identities and interact with other players. Although these games may seem social, excessive playing can isolate introverted children further from their friends and peers.

Psychological Symptoms of Internet Addiction

• Euphoria while at the computer
• Inability to stop the activity
• Craving more and more time at the computer
• Neglecting family and friends
• Feeling empty, depressed, and irritable when not at the computer
• Lying to family and friends about activities
• Problems with school or work

If you suspect Internet addiction, you can take an Internet addiction test at Internet Addiction Test.

Tips for Parents

1. Establish a Healthy Balance: If your children spend too much time online, ensure they have a balanced mix of Internet use and other activities.

2. Monitor for Symptoms: Look for signs of Internet dependency. Consider how your child’s Internet use affects their school performance, health, and relationships.

3. Seek Professional Help: If your child shows strong signs of Internet addiction, professional counseling might be necessary.

4. Reflect on Your Habits: Examine your online habits. As a role model, your behavior sets a precedent for your child.

5. Set Clear Rules: Don’t ban the Internet; instead, establish and enforce rules about where your kids can go online and what they can do.

6. Public Computer Placement: Keep the computer in a public area of the house, not in your child's bedroom.

7. Encourage Other Activities: Support your child's participation in non-digital activities, especially physical ones with peers.

8. Enhance Social Skills: If your child is shy, consider social skills classes or activities that align with their interests.

9. Use Monitoring Software: Consider using software to monitor and restrict Internet use. Remember, the goal is to develop your child's self-control and discipline.

10. Tie-In Interests: If your child loves online games, encourage related offline activities, like reading fantasy books if they enjoy fantasy role-playing games.