As the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) was being revamped this year, one psychological disorder brought up much debate- Internet Addiction Disorder (IAD), or pathological internet use was a hot topic up for discussion amongst members of the American Medical Association.Can internet overuse be considered a harmful dependency or addiction, or is it merely a compulsive behavior?
Self-proclaimed sufferers are popping up all over America in courtrooms, and hospitals. Many medical experts feel more research and data on these electronically compulsive behaviors is necessary before making a final call.
Increasingly in our culture we are seeing teens who are emotionally and psychologically dependent on electronics. Most experts agree that internet addiction does come with structural alterations to the brain, and these web-dependent individuals are frequently self-prescribing technology for depression, or anxiety-related disorders.
The patterns emerging amongst techno-savvy twenty-first century teens is concerning. Educators and parents alike are responsible for monitoring and regulating these techno-babies before it is too late.
Teens and Technology- A Good Match??
