THE CONCEPT OF INTERNET ADDICTION: SIGNS, SYMPTOMS, AND STAGES

A.H. Iskajyan

Armenian State Pedagogical University
Yerevan, Armenia
е-mail: arminiskajyan@mail.ru

Introduction

The Internet has evolved into one of humanity’s most vital tools, serving purposes ranging from information access, job opportunities, and education to entertainment, encompassing social media platforms and networking. It is increasingly becoming an integral part of our daily existence, especially with the emergence of modern smartphones, tablets, and computers.

The issue of internet addiction remains highly pertinent in our contemporary era. Many parents frequently express concerns about their children’s extensive use of social media and excessive engagement in computer games, struggling to curb these behaviors. Prominent psychological associations, including the American Psychological Association and the European Psychological Association, have also highlighted this concern. Consequently, this issue is of significant relevance and warrants thorough investigation.

In the age of cutting-edge technologies, social life is undergoing rapid transformation. The Internet has permeated nearly every aspect of public life and serves a multitude of purposes, including education, business, entertainment, and communication.

The term «Internet addiction» was initially coined in 1995 by New York psychiatrist Ivan Goldberg as a humorous gesture, where he purported that this condition did not truly exist. He posted a satirical version of the American Psychiatric Association’s «Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders» on his online psychology platform (http://psycom.net/) as a playful prank for his followers. To underscore the seriousness of the manual, he included the fictitious disorder of «Internet Addiction,» characterized by symptoms like «withdrawal or reduction of important social or occupational activities due to Internet use,» «fantasies or dreams about the Internet,» and «conscious or unconscious typing movements of the fingers» [1]. To his astonishment, I. Goldberg received numerous messages from people seeking assistance to overcome their perceived Internet addiction. This unexpected response led to increased attention to the issue of Internet misuse in various settings, including universities and hospitals [22].

Despite Dr. Goldberg’s initial attempt at humor, Internet addiction has emerged as a genuine concern for public mental health. In 1996, clinical psychologist Kimberly Young presented the results of her two-year study on Internet abuse at the annual meeting of the American Psychological Association, examining Internet addiction within a clinical context. This study garnered significant media attention and broadened the public and professional discourse surrounding Internet addiction [18].

1. Young recalls that following the publication of her book, «Trapped on the Web,» neither journalists nor researchers were initially inclined to accept the possibility of Internet addiction. Many even derided the notion that such a useful tool, ideal for remote communication and information retrieval, could become addictive. Subsequently, K. Young established the Center for Internet Addiction, which focused on investigating various aspects of Internet addiction [3].

In recent years, the concept of «addiction» has evolved. While traditionally, people associated addiction with dependence on substances like alcohol, tobacco, or drugs, it now encompasses seemingly harmless behavioral habits that, under specific conditions, can transform into genuine addictions with significant adverse consequences for an individual’s lifestyle.

According to the American Psychiatric Association, non-substance addictions have been incorporated into the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition (DSM-5). This latest edition introduces a new category, «substance abuse and dependence,» which encompasses two subtypes: psychoactive substance dependence and non-psychoactive substance dependence behavioral disorders. The latter refers to an addictive disorder that does not involve the consumption of any substance [2]. However, it’s important to note that «Internet addiction» as a distinct disorder is not explicitly delineated in diagnostic manuals. The rationale for this, as proposed by R. Pies, is that the symptoms of Internet addiction often overlap with those of other disorders, such as depression. Introducing a separate category for Internet addiction would potentially increase the number of proposed disorders, which might diminish public trust in psychiatric diagnoses [16].

Clinical observations and experimental studies conducted by J. Frascella, M. Potenza, and other researchers reveal that both substance and behavioral addictions share common characteristics encompassing genetic, neurobiological, individual, social, and clinical aspects [6]. This commonality justifies their overall classification. The primary distinction lies in the fact that individuals are not addicted to a substance but are instead addicted to a particular behavior or action and the resulting emotional experiences.

Understanding Internet Addiction

Internet use becomes problematic when it begins to function as a significant mechanism for relieving stress, loneliness, depression, or anxiety [18]. Behavioral problems related to the Internet can be described in various terms, such as Internet addiction, Pathological Internet Use (PIU), Problematic Internet use, Internet abuse, and Addiction to the Internet, or Virtual addiction [22].

1. Kraut, M. Patterson, and V. Lundmark define addiction in the context of Internet use as:

• Excessive time spent on the Internet.
• A compulsive pattern of Internet use, with an inability to manage one’s time effectively.
• Experiencing feelings of boredom when offline.
• Reduced social interactions stemming from Internet use.
• Feelings of panic or distress when unable to access the Internet [14].

Dr. Kimberly Yang believes that Internet addiction is a broad concept that should be divided into five main types [23]:

• Cyberrelationship addiction: Individuals with this type of addiction spend a significant portion of their time sending and responding to messages and feel an irresistible urge to check their email. For them, online communication with friends takes precedence over relationships with friends and family in real life.
• Information overload: The abundance of information available on the Internet has led to a behavioral addiction associated with endless database searches and both targeted and untargeted information searches.
• Net compulsion: This refers to an obsession with gambling and online shopping. As a result of direct access to virtual casinos, interactive games, and online stores, people suffering from this addiction can lose substantial amounts of money.
• Computer addiction: This category includes compulsive computer-related activities such as programming, web design, gaming, or other computer-related tasks.
• Cybersexual addiction: Involves viewing adult websites, downloading explicit material, or participating in online chat rooms.
  Griffiths categorizes Internet addiction as a type of technological addiction, which is defined as a non-chemical (behavioral) addiction characterized by excessive human-machine interaction. These addictions come in two main forms: passive (such as watching TV programs) and active (like playing video games). Typically, both active and passive addictions involve motivating and reinforcing elements that contribute to the development of addictive tendencies [10].

Signs and symptoms of Internet addiction

Signs and symptoms of Internet addiction, as suggested by M. Griffiths, are characterized by the following criteria [11]:

• Salience: This occurs when a specific activity becomes the most important in a person’s life, taking the forefront in their thoughts, emotions, and behavior, pushing other values aside. For example, the individual constantly thinks about the activity even when not engaged in it.
• Mood modification: This is the subjective experience of a person, which includes sudden changes in their mood, both positive and negative.
• Tolerance: This involves a process where periodic increases in the parameters of the activity are needed to achieve the same effect as before. For instance, a gambler may need to progressively increase their bets to experience the same level of excitement they once felt with smaller bets.
• Withdrawal: These are unpleasant feelings or physical symptoms that arise when the favored activity is discontinued or significantly reduced. These symptoms may include tremors, low mood, irritability, and more.
• Conflict: This refers to conflicts that can arise between the addicted individual and those around them (interpersonal conflict) or within the person (intrapersonal conflict).
• Relapse: This is the tendency to return to previously favored activities, even if the individual has abstained from them for an extended period.

Griffiths suggests that Internet addiction can be triggered by various factors, including the online environment, the reinforcement process, a lack of interpersonal communication, excessive interest in adult content websites, and high levels of social activity on the internet, such as in chat rooms and through computer games [12].

Chinese scientists’ brain studies, utilizing MRI and CT scans, provide evidence confirming that Internet addiction is associated with structural and functional alterations in brain regions responsible for attention, decision-making, and cognitive control [7]. R. Tao, H. Xiuqin, et al have also identified additional symptoms of Internet addiction, which include [18]:

• Lack of control: This involves unsuccessful attempts to control or reduce Internet use, indicating an inability to manage one’s online activities.
• Loss of interest in other activities: Individuals with Internet addiction may gradually lose interest in other hobbies and activities they once enjoyed, as their focus becomes predominantly centered around the online world.
• Continued use despite awareness of negative consequences and effects: Even when individuals are aware of the negative consequences and adverse effects of their excessive Internet use, they continue to engage in it, highlighting a lack of self-regulation.
• Disclaimer: This entails providing incomplete or false information about the amount of time spent on the Internet, which may be a way of concealing the extent of their addiction.

There are specific signs indicating that Internet use has become problematic. These signs include:

• Sacrificing work responsibilities to spend more time online.
• Loss of a sense of time.
• Spending more time on the Internet than initially planned.
• Feeling irritated when internet activity is interrupted.
• Hiding or lying about the actual amount of time spent online and the online activities.
• Feeling a sense of euphoria when using the Internet.
• Using the Internet as a means to cope with depression or stressful situations.
• Attempting but failing to reduce the time spent on the Internet.
• Isolating oneself from family members and friends in favor of online interactions.
• Believing that virtual friends are the only ones who truly understand them [4].

The signs and symptoms of social media addiction can manifest in both emotional and physical ways. Emotional symptoms may include depression, isolation, guilt, anxiety, a sense of euphoria when using a computer, a lack of a sense of time, mood swings, fear, and feelings of loneliness [8 ; 20].

Physical symptoms can encompass back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, headaches, insomnia, neck pain, neglect of personal hygiene (e.g., not bathing due to extended online sessions), vision problems (e.g., dry eyes from prolonged screen time), and fluctuations in weight [17 ; 20]. These symptoms highlight the range of effects that excessive Internet and social media use can have on an individual’s well-being.

A longitudinal study of Chinese high school students, as conducted by Lam, Lawrence T. et al, revealed that individuals prone to social media addiction are 2.5 times more likely to experience depressive symptoms compared to students who are not addicted to social media [15].

The accessibility and portability of the Internet pose a potential risk of addiction for teenagers. J. Gackenbach explains the propensity for Internet addiction in terms of intrapersonal and interpersonal factors [8]. Intrapersonal factors focus on internal characteristics of the person, such as personality traits, while interpersonal factors involve social support and parent-child relationships.

According to F. Chang et al., intrapersonal factors associated with Internet addiction include impulsivity, irritability, rebelliousness, low self-esteem, inattention, neglect of responsibilities, poor academic performance, and difficulties in social interaction. Among the interpersonal factors linked to Internet addiction are family status, conflictual relationships with parents, and stressful life situations [5].

In contrast to the factors mentioned above that can be prevented or mitigated, H. Koo suggests that the likelihood of developing Internet addiction is strongly related to factors like identity, which includes self-knowledge, self-esteem, and self-efficacy, as well as having adequate social interactions with peers and parents, including parental support and effective communication [13]. These various factors contribute to the understanding of Internet addiction and its associated risks.

The virtual world is characterized by the fact that individuals perceive and experience it not as a product of their minds but as an objective reality.

Thus, the concept of «Internet addiction» lacks a universally accepted definition. Drawing from interpretations and definitions proposed by various scholars, we have formulated our definition of addiction:

On one hand, addiction is a voluntary choice made by an individual. On the other hand, it limits their opportunities and self-development potential, becoming a primary need and focal point in their life. It involves a pathological and irresistible urge, where the duration of engagement is crucial. Furthermore, it leads to psychological, social, educational, and work-related difficulties in a person’s life.

 

Methods and Results

In our research, we employed the case study method to delve into the topic of internet addiction, with a primary focus on identifying its signs, symptoms, and developmental processes. This approach involves studying something in great detail within its real-life context. Case studies are particularly valuable in understanding complex and unique situations, enabling psychologists to gain profound insights into specific cases and their connections to psychological principles and theories [9]. We chose this method because it excels in conducting comprehensive and detailed investigations, offering a broad perspective, especially when tackling intricate subjects like internet addiction. Let’s present two cases where severe internet addiction is observed.

Case Study 1

Karen (name changed) is a 14-year-old male adolescent in the tenth grade with aspirations of a career in computer science. He has been experiencing restlessness, irritability, a persistent low mood, and insomnia over the past two months. Additionally, his parents have noticed his difficulty concentrating in class. Initially, his internet usage was primarily for attending online classes during the COVID-19 pandemic, but he gradually transitioned to watching online movies and videos and engaging in social networks, creating profiles on Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram. During the interview, it was revealed that, in addition to isolation due to the pandemic, certain psychological factors also played a role in the development of his internet addiction. Karen had complexes related to his extensive weight, prompting a preference for virtual communication over face-to-face interactions.

His primary use of social media was for playing online games and seeking answers to academic questions. This internet use escalated from 1-2 hours a day to 5-6 hours daily. At present, it may be assumed that he has a severe addiction based on the amount of time he spends online. Karen confessed that he dedicated most of his free time outside of school to engaging in online activities. When he wasn’t online, his thoughts were consumed by his virtual life, eagerly awaiting opportunities to continue gaming and watching videos. Consequently, his academic performance suffered in comparison to previous years.

In the interview, Karen shared, «My grades have been declining, and my parents and teachers express concern. I’ve lost interest in many activities I used to enjoy, like playing sports with friends. There are times when I cancel plans with friends to be online.» When questioned about changes in his mood or feelings when unable to use the internet, Karen replied, «Yeah, I get anxious and irritable when I can’t get online. It’s like I’m missing out on something, and I just can’t relax.» Notably, he becomes irritated and resistant when his parents or teachers request that he refrain from using his mobile device and focus on his studies.

Karen also experiences insomnia, staying awake late into the night, which further contributes to his declining academic performance, lack of concentration, and mood swings. Counseling is being offered to both the patient and the parents, with an emphasis on providing increased attention and quality time to support Karen.

Case Study 2

Mary (name changed) is a 16-year-old female adolescent who has been an active social media user for several years. During the interview, she confessed to spending a minimum of 5 hours per day online, but she found it challenging to recall the exact duration due to losing track of time. Her addiction began when she acquired her first mobile phone with internet capabilities and established a Facebook profile. Mary’s case is also indicative of severe internet addiction, as she spends 5 hours daily online.

It’s noteworthy that Mary’s parents are divorced, her mother works throughout the day, and she finds herself alone for most of the day. The internet provided her with an escape from the problems in her life. What entices her the most about internet usage is the ability to share her daily activities with the online community.

When asked about how internet use has affected her daily life, Mary responded, «Well, it’s been quite challenging. I often lose track of time, which triggers anxiety. I also experience mood swings and sometimes feel extremely isolated from everyone. Additionally, the physical side effects, such as back and neck pain, can be quite bothersome. I had no idea I would encounter such issues when I initially started using the internet».

Consequently, Mary exhibits symptoms such as a distorted sense of time, anxiety, mood fluctuations, and feelings of isolation. She also suffers from physical symptoms, including back and neck pain, attributable to prolonged periods in the same position. However, she currently expresses a desire to restrict her online time to concentrate on her studies and attain higher exam scores, as she aspires to become a doctor. Mary acknowledges that her excessive internet usage interferes with her engagement in other activities, such as genuine communication and academic focus.

Discussion

Internet addiction is particularly concerning for adolescents. When a person becomes dependent on internet use as a maladaptive way of coping with life’s stresses, they are said to be suffering from internet addiction, which is a behavioral addiction. Teenagers often lack the knowledge and awareness to properly manage their computer use and are unaware of the potential harm that the internet can expose them to.

We should also mention that Internet addiction, like any other behavioral addiction, develops gradually. Based on our observations, we have identified the following stages:

• Novelty: At this stage, a person acquires a new phone or computer and connects to the Internet. They create their first social network profiles and engage in initial information searches.
• Rare use: In this stage, an individual may check their email or visit chat rooms only 1-2 times a week and use search engines solely when necessary.
• Regular use: Here, the person begins to regularly visit social networking sites, keeps up with the latest news, and posts updates. They can spend several hours a day online, but virtual life remains a choice rather than a necessity, and they can easily prioritize more important tasks.
• Risky use: At this stage, the user is not entirely dependent on the Internet but spends an excessive amount of time online, potentially interfering with other aspects of their life.
• Addiction: In this final stage, the person can no longer imagine their life without the Internet. They check social media immediately upon waking up and stay connected virtually throughout the day.

Analyzing Case Studies 1 and 2, we find some commonalities:

• Loss of Time Control: Both Karen and Mary report difficulty in managing their time spent online. Karen loses track of time while waiting for opportunities to come online, and Mary spends significant hours online while losing awareness of time passing.
• Anxiety and Mood Swings: Both individuals experience feelings of anxiety and mood swings. Karen becomes anxious and irritable when unable to go online, while Mary mentions mood swings and anxiety as well.
• Desire to Be Online: Both Karen and Mary exhibit a strong desire to be online, which affects their real-life activities. Karen cancels plans with friends to be online, and Mary finds it tough to disconnect and often loses track of time online.

However, there are also differences:

• Motivation to Change: Mary expresses a desire to reduce her online time to focus on her studies and future career as a doctor. In contrast, Karen does not seem to recognize the harm of his internet use and is resistant to giving it up.
• Initial Triggers: Karen’s addiction appears to be triggered by the necessity of online classes during the COVID-19 pandemic, while Mary’s addiction is linked to coping with stress from her parents’ divorce and feelings of loneliness.

Both case studies underscore the need for early recognition and intervention in internet addiction cases, with a particular emphasis on understanding the unique triggers and motivations of affected individuals to provide tailored support and strategies for managing internet use. In our further research, we will introduce methods for overcoming internet addiction.

Conclusion

This article has explored the signs, symptoms, and developmental stages of Internet addiction, providing insights into the multifaceted nature of this issue. We’ve observed how individuals can become ensnared by excessive Internet use, whether as a coping mechanism for stress, loneliness, or simply due to habitual behavior.

By examining real-life cases, we’ve witnessed the tangible consequences of Internet addiction on young individuals. It’s clear that this problem not only impacts their mental well-being but also has repercussions on their academic performance and relationships. Identifying the signs and stages of Internet addiction is essential for early intervention and support.

Given the pervasive presence of the Internet in nearly every facet of our lives, it’s vital to raise awareness about responsible and balanced Internet usage, particularly among the younger generation. Internet addiction, much like other behavioral addictions, can develop gradually and progress through stages, ultimately significantly affecting an individual’s life.

Prevention is better than cure. To reduce the likelihood of Internet addiction among teenagers, we should focus on educating them, identifying issues early, and promoting healthier online behaviors. Neglecting or disregarding one’s well-being and health can lead to adverse consequences.

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