internet addiction disorder (redirected from Internet addict)

internet addiction disorder

Internet misuse Psychology A maladaptive pattern of Internet use, leading to clinically significant impairment or distress

Internet addiction disorder–manifest by 3 or more of the following, occurring at any time in the same 12-month period

1. Tolerance defined by either of the following: A. Need for markedly ↑  amounts of time on the Internet to achieve satisfaction B. Markedly diminished effect with continued use of the same amount of time on Internet

2. Withdrawal manifest by either of the following:

 A. A characteristic withdrawal syndrome

 1. Following cessation of–or reduction in—Internet use that has been heavy and prolonged

 2. Two or more of the following, developing within several days to a month after Criterion 1:

  a. Psychomotor agitation

  b. Anxiety

  c. Obsessive rumination regarding events presently occurring on the Internet

  d. Fantasies or dreams about the Internet

  e. Involuntary typing movements of the fingers

 3. The symptoms in Criterion 2 cause distress or impairment in social, occupational, or another important area of functioning

 B. Use of Internet or a similar on-line service is engaged to relieve or avoid withdrawal symptoms

3. Internet Accessed more often or for longer period of time than was intended

4. Desire to control use Persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control Internet use

5. Time spent A great deal of time is spent in activities related to Internet use, eg buying Internet books, trying out new web browsers, researching Internet vendors, organizing files of downloaded material

6. Normal activities ignored Important social, occupational, or recreational activities are given up or reduced because of Internet use

7. Use continues despite recognition of ill effects Use continues despite knowledge of having a persistent or recurrent physical, social, occupational, or psychological problem that is likely to have been caused or exacerbated by Internet use–sleep deprivation, marital difficulties, lateness for early morning appointments, neglect of occupational duties, or feelings of abandonment in significant others Internet Addiction Support Group psydoc@netcom.com