Internet Chatting Addiction

While the Internet has emerged in recent years as an amazing resource and an excellent entertainment outlet, there has also been an almost simultaneous rise in the discussion about overuse and the potential consequences. The term Internet addiction has been coined as a popular phrase that can cover everything from online gaming addiction to Internet chatting addiction, and plenty of research has been devoted to studying whether someone can truly become addicted to the Internet, and what consequences can result.

But are Internet surfing and Internet chatting addiction really medical issues? Technically, this problem has not earned formal recognition as an actual "addiction" from the American Medical Association. However, anyone battling the effects of this type of problem can certainly attest that there are a number of negative side effects that can result. Research has actually shown that while Internet addiction may not technically be classified as an addiction, it still shows many of the same serious health and behavioral consequences as gambling addiction.

As a parent of a child who enjoys spending time online, playing games, watching videos, and chatting with friends, it can be worrisome to consider the consequences of Internet surfing and Internet chatting addiction. How can you tell when your child's love of spending time on the Internet crosses over from mere pastime into a more serious problem?

You should always consult your doctor for help and more information on Internet chatting addiction, but the Mikko Que can also help. This innovative device gives you unparalleled ability to monitor and manage your child's screen time on the Internet, TV, video games and more. With the Mikko Que you can reduce the use of electronic devices by decreasing your child's time allowance over a period of time.  For example, in a given month you might allow your child 10 hours a day of use. Then, you can reduce usage to eight hours a day the next month and so on until your child's media consumption is more in line with recommended standards. This technique is less obtrusive and will result in less resistance.  It will also give parents the peace of mind that during sleeping hours their children are not up watching TV, playing video games, or surfing the Internet.

For more information on the Mikko Que and how it can help you create a healthy, effective media management system in your home, and potentially prevent Internet chatting addiction, contact us today.

Media Management for Children … It’s time.