What Are The Risk Factors Involved With Internet Addiction?

Written by Dr. Kimberly Young

Who is vulnerable to Internet addiction?

Trends in my study indicate that those most vulnerable to this obsession include women and men who already suffer from depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, low self-esteem, or the struggles with recovery from a prior addiction. Many Internet Addicts openly admit to having an "addictive personality" and previously abused prescription medication, alcohol, cigarettes, or food. A sub-group of individuals who suffer from sex addiction are at a greater risk to develop an addiction to the Internet as a disease-free way to fulfill their sexual needs. Their sole purpose for using the Internet is to engage in Cybersex or seek out readily available Cyberporn.

Caught in the Net

In Caught in the NET, case studies reveal how these Internet users turn to newsgroups, chat rooms, or interactive games seeking temporary relief, only to find that the old problems they've been avoiding have stuck with them, exacerbated by their addiction to the Internet. Following each case study, intervention tools and new recovery strategies point the way toward curbing excessive Internet use while addressing the real-life problems behind it.

Please view our array of Seminars if you are an addiction counselor, employee assistance provider, family therapist, or mental health professional would like to arrange to arrange a full-day training workshop on the evaluation and treatment of compulsive Internet use.

Please contact our Virtual Clinic if you think you have a problem with controlling your Internet use (or you know someone who does).

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