Although it is not yet recognized as a medical diagnosis, the term "Internet addiction" is now widely used to describe people who cannot control their use of the Internet. According to the Computer Addiction Study Center at Harvard University's McLean Hospital, between 5 percent and 10 percent of Internet users develop some form of Internet dependency. Some Internet addicts become hooked on online games or pornography sites, while others compulsively gamble or shop online.
Cybersex
Around 1-in-5 Internet addicts are addicted to sexual activity online, such as cybersex or viewing pornography. Many addicts take this behavior even further, meeting their online partners for sex in the real world. A 2009 survey conducted by Divorce Magazine found that a third of divorce cases now begin with an online affair.
Online Gambling
Although it is illegal for online gambling websites to be based in the U.S., Americans spend more than $8 billion on offshore online gambling sites each year. The most popular games are poker, sports betting and race betting. Internet gambling addictions can be more damaging than regular gambling addictions because it is easier for addicts to hide their behavior and engage in around-the-clock betting.
Online Games
Interactive online games such as World of Warcraft, Everquest, and Second Life are popular with millions of gamers around the world, but some people find themselves increasingly sucked into the online world at the expense of their real-world lives and relationships. Online support groups, including Online Gamers Anonymous, offer 12-step programs for gaming addicts, as well as support for gaming "widows," people whose partners are addicted to online games.
Shopping
The Internet also has created a new outlet for compulsive shoppers, who can indulge their addiction at thousands of stores, 24 hours a day. Auction sites such as eBay are especially popular with compulsive shoppers, who fret about finding the next great deal. Signs of online shopping addiction include waking up in the middle of the night to check on auction listings, buy multiple copies of the same item or unnecessary items because it was a bargain, and lying about spending or hiding bills and credit card statements from spouses.
Treatment
Internet addiction can be a serious problem. Internet addicts may withdraw from their normal social life, deceive family and friends, and experience extreme feelings of guilt and anxiety over their Internet use. If someone you know is struggling with Internet addiction, psychotherapy, family counseling or joining a support group may help. There is also a more intensive treatment option: The first dedicated U.S. Internet addiction recovery center, named ReSTART, opened in Seattle in 2009.
