Computer Addiction is a mental illness which causes the excessive use of computers to the extent that it interferes with daily life. (Wikipedia)
Currently there is no official diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) nor is it proposed for the new version (DSM-V); however, we see a pattern of addictive behavior in computer use.
Teenagers are not immune from excess use of the computer. Perhaps they are more prone to excessive computer use since their entire world revolves around computers. Teens have cell phones, tablets, mini-tablets and laptops that are all types of computers.
Most types of media advertising reference websites and use QR codes, (Quick Response) the little square stamp size black and white boxes that will take you directly to a website when you scan them with your phone. Schools and public libraries have computer labs. Hotels often have computers available for their guests. There is almost a constant connection with a computer and/or the internet.
There is no official diagnosis for Computer Addiction; however, there are real symptoms.
Symptoms of excessive computer use:
- Lack of social interaction
- Using the computer for pleasure, gratification or stress relief
- Feeling irritable and out of control or depressed when not using it
- Neglecting school, work or other obligations
- Sleep deprivation
- Spending more and more money on hardware, software or computer-related activities
- Mood problems
- Lying about the amount of time spent on computer activities
- School problems
- Problems with personal relationships
- Physical problems: eye strain, dry eyes, carpal tunnel, back and neck pain
- Failing at repeated efforts to control computer use
- Never getting off the computer
Video game addiction is extreme use of computer and video games that interferes with daily life. Instances have been reported in which users play compulsively, isolating themselves from family and friends or from other forms of social contact, and focus almost entirely on in-game achievements rather than other life events exhibiting mood swings and lack of imagination.
Are your concerned about your teenagers excessive computer use?
Do you see many of the symptoms of excessive computer use in your teen?
If so, it is time to get help.
Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) is often used in treating addictive behavior because it focuses on negative thinking patterns, how thinking patterns relate to behavior and how to change thinking patterns and thereby change behavior.
Triumph Youth Services has worked with teenage boys and young men with a variety of issues including Computer Addiction. Give them a call.
Reference:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer_addiction
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Video_game_addiction
