Internet addiction disorder (IAD), refers to excessive computer use that interferes with daily life. Other terms used for it are, “Compulsive internet use” or ,”problematic internet use”. These terms refer to a state where important social and or occupational activities are reduced or given up, due to use of internet, i.e. where normal life is disrupted due to internet use. Internet addiction is a subset of broader technology addiction. Way back it was for radio(1930s), later for television), but with the virtual explosion of digital technology, there is no parallel between intensity of addiction to radio or T.V. to that of internet. Since it offers a wide range of experiences, with no accountability, it is much more appealing to users. The first quantitative journal study results of Internet use as possible addiction were published in 1996 by Penn State researcher, Steven John Thompson in the Penn State McNair Journal. Thompson was a McNair Scholar who began his empirical Internet addiction research in 1995 with focus on the mass media effects of the Internet on society. Various other studies have also been carried out. The harmful effects of excess use of internet are well known now. Reduced eye sight, chronic back and neck pain, cramps in fingers, carpal tunnel syndrome, obesity and its attendant problems are the physical effects of excess internet use. Emotional instability, being cut off from real emotions are some of the mental ill effects. Living in a fantasy world with more online friends than real ones, inability to nurture real human relationships, breakdown of existing relationships are the social hazards of excess internet use. Lack of attention at work place, affects ones ability to work, hence may not succeed in work place. Thus it can be seen that excess internet use affects ones physical, mental, social, as well as occupational lives. Teenagers and adolescents are much more affected. Worst still, they may be drawn to porn or other undesirable sites, which can make them delinquents. Giving it up becomes difficult for user. Individuals with IAD, have been known to suffer from irritability, anxiety, vague headache, e.t.c. problems, if they give up internet use suddenly. The addiction can be to anything on the net like music, videos, online gambling, games, e.t.c Since younger people are more affected, it is vital for elders to watch for warning features of IAD. Some of these are, preoccupation with the Internet, where one is always thinking about, previous on-line activity or anticipating the next one. Use of the Internet in increasing amounts of time in order to achieve satisfaction, no attempt or repeated, unsuccessful efforts to control, reduce or stop Internet use. Feelings of restlessness, moodiness, depression, or irritability in the individual, when attempting to cut down Internet use, staying on-line longer than originally intended, even when avoidable. Jeopardized or risked loss of significant relationships, job, educational or career opportunities because of excess Internet use. Speaking lies to family members, therapists, or others to conceal the extent of involvement with the Internet. Use of the Internet as a way to escape from problems or to relieve a bad mood. It is considered important to check for the above mentioned signs of IAD and help the affected person to overcome it. Counseling as individuals and in groups is the first step towards it. Reducing the use, instead of curtailing it altogether, is the motto aimed at. People should be educated about how constant, excess internet use can affect their overall health. They need to be told that online friends can be fake as well as dangerous. Outdoor and indoor activities should be planned for youngsters, which should be much more enjoyable than watching internet. Collective efforts by all concerned, can ensure that internet is used without being addicted to it.
