Teenagers with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, depression, social phobias and other psychosocial disorders are more likely to be addicted to the Internet, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. As many as one in eight Americans may be unable to control their Internet use. In 2008, there was a computer in more than 80 percent of U.S. households--add Internet-capable smartphones to that figure and teenagers can access the Internet almost around the clock.
Types
Internet addiction takes many forms and teenagers may be more at risk than adults. Psychologist Michael G. Conner states that ADHD or shy teenagers are "especially vulnerable" to Internet addiction, online chat and compulsive texting. The Internet allows teenagers to withdraw socially while still maintaining virtual communication, often with people they don't know. Teenage boys in particular are likely to become heavily involved in the virtual world of online games. The easy availability of online pornography and gambling lures many teens, especially if there's little parental supervision or "net nanny" filters on home computers.
Gender Differences
Males are more likely to go online looking for sexual fantasy and domination, through pornography or interactive games. On the other hand, females look for relationships more so than sex, and gravitate towards online communities and chat. Women spend more time on the Internet than men, according to Conner. Being depressed or shy is predictive of Internet addiction in girls, but not boys, although ADHD teenagers are equally likely to use the Internet compulsively.
Considerations
Internet addiction can have serious consequences for teenagers, whether they are in high school or college. One of the definitions of compulsive Internet use is being online when you should be attending to other things, such as school work, relationships, sports or hobbies, according to the Center for Internet Addiction. Conner estimates that Internet addiction plays a part in about 50 percent of all family conflicts. Internet addiction contributes to lost productivity, academic failure, isolation and poor personal care, he warns.
Identification
The University of Texas Counseling Center has published a list of warning signals for Internet addiction, whether you are the parent of a teen or a teenager wondering if she herself is addicted to the Internet. They include being preoccupied with your online life when not online, lying about Internet life, being unable to control the amount of time you spend online or deliberately using the Internet to escape from problems in your life. If cutting back or stopping Internet use causes withdrawal feelings such as anxiety, depression or anger, you may be addicted.
Prevention/Solution
The University of Texas lays out some strategies for weaning yourself from excessive Internet use. Find hobbies that get you away from the computer. Set a time limit for your daily Internet use; use an alarm clock to signal that your online time is up. Recognize your "triggers" for going on--and staying on--the computer and find an alternate activity. Examine your life and identify problem areas that could be improved with counseling, improving your self-esteem or breaking the cycle of social isolation. Like any addiction, breaking an addiction to the Internet involves a multi-pronged approach based on your personal situation.
