Internet addiction is problematic and is characterized by excessive internet use which ultimately leads to this addiction. Internet addiction is defined by lack of preoccupations, urges and trends in one’s behavior regarding the continued use of computers and the internet that ultimately leads to distress. Internet addiction is a common phenomenon among the younger generation due to the unlimited access such individuals have to the Internet. Uninhibited use of the internet is a growing social issue that has elicited strong debate on the possible perils of addiction (Young, 1998). The aim of this paper is to research on the cause and effects of internet addiction and the additional provision of the various solutions available to the problem.
Some of the known causes of internet addiction include social causes. Social connections made online may cause addiction through social media platforms and online friends. Internet addicts have close social relations with online dates and relationships that are usually attractive due to fewer risks involved than in real life scenarios. Personality traits that provide a tonic to internet addiction notes are common as a form of predisposition to the web (Young, 1998). An individual with the correct internet addiction personality traits is more susceptible to internet substance abuse, and this may include an addictive personality, weak emotional growth and life stresses may be quickly addicted if there is solace on the web. There is also an attachment caused due to inclination to internet friends who may also be available when real life social problems arise (Baty, 1999). People with anxiety and depression are more prone to internet addiction.
There are both short term and long term effects of internet addiction that are as a result of excessive use of the web. Among the most common immediate effects of addiction to the web include unfinished tasks that are caused by excessive time spent on the internet. Dismissal and aversion of one's responsibilities due to a lack of interest and time to responsibly meet one's obligations. The weight gain is an inherent effect due to the failure to involve one’s self in activities that consist of body exercises. Bankruptcy is a real cause-effect that is detrimental to an individual and his/her dependents, especially when time is dedicated to gambling and gaming. Gambling and gaming may be considered as addictive tendencies that lead to psychosocial disorders (Walker, 1992). The effects mentioned earlier are just but a few of the cause effects of continued internet use and subsequent addiction.
Internet addiction has several consequences, and it is imperative that solutions are provided to help stop the scourge and minimize the effects faced by the individual. Various solutions are available to Internet users, for persons that often work on the web the use of virtual assistants is important, such assistants are cheap and are paid at an hourly rate thus reducing one's time on the computer. Set boundaries for the period that is to be spent on the computer while involving one's family and friends to limit and maintain accountability of time spent online. Modification of one's routine to allow for periods where one can be involved in social activities will greatly aid in mitigating the addiction problems. Tracking of one’s progress and treating the internet as a tool are strategic methods through which addiction may be avoided and reduced. The solutions provided may prove to be useful in the reduction of internet time and addictive tendencies.
Internet addiction is a problem in the contemporary society especially with the increased use of internet services. Addiction may not only stem from social activities on the web but may also arise due to work related activities. The causes and effects of internet use have been exhaustively discussed in the paper with possible solutions provided as a means of resolving the problem that impacts negatively on the people affected. Internet addiction is a social issue that should be solved through the best practices.
References.
Young, K. S. (1998). Caught in the net: How to recognize the signs of internet addiction--and a winning strategy for recovery. John Wiley & Sons.
Baty, S. P. (1999). E-mail Trouble: Love and Addiction@ the Matrix. University of Texas Press.
Walker, M. B. (1992). The psychology of gambling. Pergamon Press.
