Posted on 05/19/2006 10:05:24 PM PDT by LouAvul
For some, the Internet it has become an addiction, adversely affecting their lives and their family's lives.
While not yet defined as a true addiction, many people are suffering the consequences of obsession with the online world, warns Dr. Diane M. Wieland, who treats patients with computer addiction in her practice in Lansdale, Pennsylvania.
For some people, the Internet may promote addictive behaviors and pseudo-intimate interpersonal relationships, reports Wieland in the journal, Perspectives in Psychiatric Care. "Such cyberspace contacts may result in cyber disorders such as virtual relationships that evolve into online marital infidelity (cybersex) or online sexually compulsive behaviors," she writes.
"Obsession with and craving time on the computer results in neglect of real-life personal relationships to the point of divorce," Wieland says.
The prevalence of Internet addiction is hard to gauge at the moment, Wieland notes. Extrapolating from prevalence rates of other addictions, she thinks that 5 percent to 10 percent of Internet users will most likely experience addiction.
Signs and symptoms of Internet addiction include a general disregard for health and appearance; sleep deprivation due to spending so much time online; and decreased physical activity and social interaction with others. Dry eyes, carpal tunnel syndrome, and repetitive motion injuries of the hands and fingers are common.
(Excerpt) Read more at cnn.com ...
Wins: 42808
Losses: 10512
80%
Streaks: Wins: 46
Losses: 6
(husband walks in on you, you cover the screen and hide the keyboard)
"ITS NOT WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE!!! I CAN EXPLAIN!!!"
When I found I was spending too much time on the internet, I found an online 12 step group for it.
Unfortunatley, the meetings would last for 6-8 hours.....
I'm more concerned about TV addiction and its most dangerous variant, CNN addiction.
I scored 23
"When I found I was spending too much time on the internet, I found an online 12 step group for it.
Unfortunatley, the meetings would last for 6-8 hours....."
Hahahahaha. Funny
My hubby and I have side by side computers. He hangs out on reenacting sites and I hang out on FR. We read each other things we find interesting...
ping
What they're doing they don't need the Internet for.
I love the internet. If I wasn't online I couldn't stay in my Apt for very long/
Internet addiction?
CNN/Reuters 24/7 for fast relief.
Non-addicting media.
Prove it! :)
How many posts do you have on Free Republic?
All I know is that it has helped me quit burying bodies under the house.
I like how this link gives you an opportunity to get chat room counseling. Wouldn't that be like having an AA meeting in a bar?
"Hi my name is ______ and I am addicted to Free Republic!"
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