Addiction
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Internet Addiction
Video Game Addiction and Kids
Internet Addiction
More than 5 million kids may be addicted to video games. 31% of males and 13% of females report that they have felt “addicted” to video games.
Do you know someone spending too much time playing video games or on the Internet? It may be a sign of technological addiction. Our counselors help clients identify the source of stressful situations or unpleasant feelings that are luring addicts to escape into a fantasy world of cyberspace. We will help participants turn off the games and get a real life, with healthier outlets to bring balance and happiness.
Symptoms of Internet Addiction
- Sense of euphoria while at computer
- Inability to stop the activity
- Craving more and more online activity
- Neglect of family and friends
- Lying about online activities
- Problems with school
- Feeling empty, depressed and irritable when not at the computer
Treatment focuses on identifying the source of stressful situations or unpleasant feelings while recognizing how problematic usage is affecting the individual’s life. After doing so, the goal is to create new and healthier outlets of expression or enjoyment in place of technology.
Internet Addiction Diagnostic Questionnaire
- Do you or your child feel preoccupied with the Internet (thinking about previous online activity or anticipating next online session)?
- Do you or your child feel the need to use the Internet with increasing amounts of time in order to achieve satisfaction?
- Have you or your child repeatedly made unsuccessful efforts to control, cut back, or stop Internet use?
- Do you or your child feel restless, moody, depressed, or irritable when attempting to cut down or stop Internet use?
- Do you or your child stay online longer than originally intended?
- Have you or your child jeopardized or risked the loss of significant relationship, job, educational or career opportunity because of the Internet?
- Have you or your child lied to family members, therapist, or others to conceal the extent of involvement with the Internet?
- Do you or your child use the Internet as a way of escaping from problems or of relieving a dysphonic mood (e.g., feelings of helplessness, guilt, anxiety, depression)?
If you answered YES to five of the above symptoms you need help NOW. If you answered YES to 3 or more you could be headed towards full blown addiction.