Internet Addiction Definition –What is the True Nature of this Problem?

There are a number of addictions that have long been mainstays in the discussions of health in America, including drugs, alcohol, gambling, and more. Yet in recent years, another type of addiction has earned its fair share of notoriety – Internet addiction. But what exactly is the Internet addiction definition? Does this problem fit in with addictions to other substances and vices?

Technically, the Internet addiction definition is not enough to have earned an actual classification in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. However, that does not lessen the severity of this problem and the side effects it can cause, especially in children. The American Medical Association says the term "seems to have been coined in the 1990s when researchers were attempting to describe a constellation of behaviors observed in persons using the Internet to such an extent that it began to cause other aspects of their lives to become dysfunctional." In fact, research has shown there a number of connections between the actions and health consequences of Internet addiction and gambling addiction. So while the Internet addiction definition may not be as an actual addiction, per se, it is still a serious issue.

You clearly wouldn't want your children to become addicted to gambling, so why would Internet overuse be any different? Don't let any confusion over the Internet addiction definition distract you from the importance of this matter. If you've had constant arguments with your kids over their online time and have noticed changes in their behavior as a result, speak with your doctor for more information. However, if you are also looking for an effective way to monitor and control your kids' use of the Internet, TV, video games, and more, and a system to help teach your children effective media management skills, contact us today to learn more about the Mikko Que.

Media Management for Children … It’s time.