Some people may use the term "Internet Addiction" to label their behaviour, but to be labeled an "Internet addict" requires a professional judgement from a certified clinical psychologist.
Children with the following traits may be overusing the Internet:
> Losing track of the time spent online.
> Feel disappointment, loss of appetite, anger and depression when forced to log off the net
> Bad eyesight due to the long hours spent in front of monitors
> Lying about the amount of time spent online
"Overusing the Internet" is generally caused by an intense curiosity about cyberspace and the way people interact online. Children and young adults may get addicted to the exoticness, excitement, and interactivity that the Internet can provide.
They may consider the Internet to be a "fast lane" for information collection and a new channel for making friends. Ultimately their Internet activities may become a substitute for social activities.
If you find your children are overusing the Internet, you should encourage them to spend fewer hours online and to maintain a normal, socially active life. |
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