The topics we have covered in this course so far have been about the uses and misuses of the Internet and how the Internet is a dynamic mode for communication. For this post, however, I would like to focus on the repercussions that overuse of the Internet entails: Internet addiction.
Internet addiction, otherwise known as computer addiction, online addiction, or Internet addiction disorder (IAD), can be defined as “excessive computer use that interferes with daily life”. It covers a variety of problems, including cybersex addiction, net compulsions and information overload.
For more information regarding the various problems that Internet addiction brings, refer to: http://helpguide.org/mental/internet_cybersex_addiction.htm.
Firstly, let’s determine the causes of Internet addiction. In a fast-paced society like that of Singapore, the Internet has gained a foothold on many people’s lives due to its convenience, accessibility, user-friendliness and its myriad of functions. Social media such as Facebook and Twitter have also allowed the Internet to pervade our lives. Smartphones like the iPhone, Blackberry and Android phones are enabling us to have 24/7 Internet connection. We Singaporeans are overly dependent on the Internet as our source of information, entertainment, socialization and (sometimes) narcissism, among many others. In Singapore, as well as all over the world, many people turn to the Internet as a form of release from unpleasant feelings such as stress, loneliness, depression, and anxiety. It helps us solve our boredom and escape our problems when we roam online aimlessly or keep our minds occupied with online games, news and social media. Persistent use of such methods as outlets for our frustration and other negative emotions will result in us becoming overly-dependent on and addicted to the Internet.
So how do we cure Internet addiction? Personally, I think that the problem does not lie with the Internet itself, but with the methods that people employ to solve their negative emotions and to take their minds off their difficulties. However, though the Internet does provide temporary relief and enjoyment, it does not eradicate the root issues, nor does it give us permanent release. Therefore, in order to cure Internet addiction, we need to apply the principle of replacement: that is, we need to use other healthier, more effective and long-term solutions to help us overcome our negative emotions and difficulties.
Internet addiction is just like all other addictions. Thus, I believe that the first step that people in Alcoholics Anonymous (http://www.alcoholicsanonymoussingapore.org/the_twelve_steps) take towards curing their addiction applies to Internet addicts as well. First and foremost, Internet addicts need to admit that they are powerless over Internet addiction, that their lives have become unmanageable. By realizing that they are vulnerable and susceptible towards Internet addiction, these people will be more able to deal with it. After all, the worst approach in solving a problem is thinking that you don’t have a problem.
Next, people need to take active steps towards kicking their habit by applying the principle of replacement. People can and should attempt to cure their addictions by using something else to solve their boredom and difficulties. One of the ways is to find a greater purpose and cause to live for. After all, living for the temporary comfort and release the Internet brings is quite depressing. Thus, by committing themselves to and spending their time for these greater causes, Internet addicts will find joy and fulfillment that the Internet cannot give. As such, the negative emotions they experience will be resolved permanently.
I’m no expert in curing of any addictions, but I know that living for a greater purpose does take our eyes off our temporal troubles and negative emotions and leads us to joy and fulfillment. Sounds like a pretty effective method to curb our addictions (not just Internet addiction), doesn’t it? (:
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