What makes the Internet addictive?

The Internet itself is a term which represents different types of functions that are accessible on-line. Generally speaking, Internet Addicts tend to form an emotional attachment to the on-line friends and activities they create inside their computer screens. They enjoy those aspects of the Internet which allowed them to meet, socialize, and exchange ideas with new people through highly interactive Internet applications (such as chatting, playing on-line games, or being involved with several newsgroups). These virtual communities create a vehicle to escape from reality and seek out a means to fulfill an unmet emotional and psychological need.

On the Internet, you can conceal your real name, age, occupation, appearance, and your physical responses to anyone or anything you encounter on-line. Internet users, especially those who are lonely and insecure in real-life situations, take that freedom and quickly pour out their strongest feelings, darkest secrets, and deepest desires. This leads to the illusion of intimacy, but when reality underscores the severe limitations of relying on a faceless community for the love and caring that can only come from actual people, Internet addicts experience very real disappointment and pain.

In Caught in the NET, you will learn more about why the Internet is addictive and recovery strategies to prevent and avoid the pitfalls of the Information Superhighway.

Our Virtual Clinic provides email, chat room, and telephone therapy for immediate help.

If you are a mental health professional, please refer to our Seminars to arrange a full-day training workshop on the evaluation and treatment of compulsive Internet use.

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