Timothy was twelve years old when his parents bought him a computer for his room, thinking it would help him with his homework as he was entering high school. Timothy took to the Internet right away and soon discovered chat rooms and email. Early on, Timothy’s parents frequently looked over his shoulder to make sure he was using the Internet safely. However, after a while, they stopped monitoring his online habits. However, problems soon arose. Timothy began to spend all of his free time in his room and was cranky when asked to spend time with his family. His grade point average dropped from A to D and he became irritable and angry when he was away from his computer. Timothy is at high risk for Internet addiction.

Computers have long been used by children and adults as trusted sources of information. More than 20% of children now have computers in their own bedrooms, and through the Internet they have access to an unlimited supply of information and interaction. However, the risks of addiction are very great among children who are exposed to the Internet without strict guidelines from parents.

Excessive use of the Internet in children can lead to health problems such as obesity, headaches and general health problems due to lack of physical activity. Children can become socially maladjusted and unable to communicate well with friends and family. Pedophiles can and do target children online. There is a high risk that children who use the Internet excessively will be exposed to inappropriate sexual content as well as scams. Excessive gambling and use of online services can also cause children to spend money without their parents’ knowledge. Finally, most of the popular online games show an excessive use of violence. Viewing trivialized violence in a virtual world, such as television or the Internet, has been linked to marked increases in behavioral violence among young viewers.

So what are the warning signs of internet addiction? Psychology and media experts have compiled a list of warning signs for Internet addiction:

1. The Internet is often used as a means of escaping from problems or relieving a depressed mood.

2. Your child often loses track of time while online.

3. Sleep is sacrificed for the opportunity to spend more time online.

4. Your child prefers to spend more time online than with friends or family.

5. Lies to family and friends about the amount of time or the nature of Internet browsing.

6. Your child becomes irritable if he is not allowed to access the Internet.

7. You have lost interest in activities that you used to enjoy before you had access to the Internet.

8. Your child forms new relationships with the people he has put online.

9. They check their email several times a day.

10. You have jeopardized relationships, achievements, or educational opportunities because of the Internet.

11. Your child violates the time limits set for Internet use.

12. They eat in front of the computer frequently.

13. Your child develops withdrawal symptoms including: anxiety, restlessness, or shaking hands after not using the Internet for a long period of time.

14.Your child is worried about getting back online when away from the computer.

15. They have trouble distinguishing between the virtual world and the real world.

It is very important that parents identify Internet addiction in their children at an early age and set limits on their Internet use. My next article will provide a serious contract that parents can use with their children to set limits and limits on Internet use.