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

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

Abstract. In today’s digital age, the Internet plays a pivotal role in nearly every aspect of modern life, encompassing education, communication, and entertainment. However, the rapid evolution of the Internet has raised serious concerns among professional psychological associations, parents, and teachers. This article is dedicated to studying the signs, symptoms, and stages of Internet addiction. The article presents two case studies of internet addiction, accompanied by an analysis of the corresponding signs and symptoms. These case studies emphasize the multifaceted factors contributing to internet addiction and underscore the necessity for early recognition and intervention strategies tailored to individual motivations. Based on research findings, it is evident that the symptoms of Internet addiction encompass both physical and psychological manifestations, including depression, mood swings, intolerance, conflict, loss of a sense of time, unsuccessful attempts to reduce Internet usage, and social isolation.  Hence, promoting responsible and balanced Internet usage, especially among the younger generation, becomes critically important. Preventive measures and education can significantly reduce the incidence of Internet addiction and mitigate its associated health and psychological consequences.

Keywords: Internet addiction, signs and symptoms, stages of addiction, case study, observation, early intervention