Internet Addiction
The use of the Internet can definitely disrupt one’s academic, social, financial and occupational life the same way other well-documented addictions like pathological gambling, eating disorder and alcoholism can.
Almost anything could be the target of o pathological addiction drugs, eating, exercising, gambling, sex, spending, working, etc. You name it, someone out there is obsessed with it.
According to expert, these pothological addictions usually have their origin early in a persons life, where they can be traced to significant deprivations and conflicts. They may be on attempt to control depression and anxiety. and may reflect deep insecurities and feelings of inner emptiness.
Ivan Goldberg, the facilitator of an internet addiction support group, proposed his own set of symptoms for what he prefers to call Pathological Computer Use.
These symptoms include:
*drastic lifestyle changes in order to spend more time on the net
*general decrease in physical activity
*disregard for ones health as a result of internet activity
*avoiding important life activities in order to spend time on the net
*sleep deprivation or a change in sleep patterns in order to spend time on the net
*decrease in socializing, resulting in loss of friends neglecting family and friends
*a craving for more time at the computer
*neglecting job, school and personal obligations