Excessive Internet Usage

Term Paper # 108729

Computer and Technology > Internet
Psychology

This paper explores whether excessive use of the Internet should be considered an addiction.

1,055 words () | 5 sources | APA | 2008 United States

Paper Summary:

The paper clarifies that the real question regarding excessive Internet use is whether or not Internet addiction is an actual condition, or if it should just be considered "Internet dependence". The paper relates that Internet addiction and other addictions have some traits in common. The paper reveals that the American Psychiatric Association (APA) does not include Internet addiction in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The paper emphasizes, however, that more and more people are becoming dependent on technology and the Internet everyday.

From the Paper:

"Should excessive use of the Internet be considered an addiction? That is what several researchers have been trying to figure out, since the internet has become such a big part of our lives. Technology is more available than just the internet. Almost everything we do today uses some kind of computer. People rely more and more on technology every day, to run their lives. Many of our human behaviors are changing, just due to our use of the internet. A few of these behaviors are gambling, gaming, sex, and communication. Potential internet addicts also portray several other disorders/addictions that can lead to internet addiction."

Sample of Sources Used:

Grossman, L. (16 April 2007). The Hyperconnected. Time Canada 169 (16), 40-41. Retrieved November 3, 2007, from EBSCO Student Research Center
Holahan, C. (14 December 2006). Virtually Addicted. Business Week Online, 5.Retrieved November 3, 2007, from EBSCO Student Research Center
Miller, M. (October 2007). Questions and Answers. Harvard Mental Health Letter 24 4), 8-8. Retrieved November 3, 2007, from EBSCO Student Research Center
Mitchell, P. (19 February 2000). Internet Addiction: genuine diagnosis or not? Lancet 355 (9204), 632. Retrieved November 4, 2007 from EBSCO Student Research Center
Potera, C. (Mar/April 1998). Trapped in the web. Psychology Today 31 (2)6. Retrieved on November 5 2007 from EBSCO Student Research Center