Nowadays, the vast majority of people utilize various information technologies to access the Internet on a daily basis. Whereas the Internet can be used for a great variety of practical purposes, including work and education, many individuals spend an excessive amount of time online. Many also have a lack of control over their urges to surf and scroll random information on websites and social media. In case such behavior interferes with one’s life and hinders one’s ability to function and attain certain objectives and goals, it is appropriate to call it an addiction.
Technological addiction is unlike chemical or gaming addictions as its effects are somewhat less harmful to individuals and society. Based on Kimberly Young’s questionnaire, the main features of internet addiction are the excessive use of the Internet, its utilization to escape real-life problems, and absorption in thoughts about own Internet activities. Moreover, Internet addiction is also manifested in one’s unsuccessful attempts to reduce the amount of time spent online and the loss of certain life opportunities and relationships due to excessive internet use. It is possible to presume that every person experiences at least a few of these symptoms at some point in life.
One of the major factors contributing to uncontrolled use of the Internet is the brain’s reaction to certain pleasure stimuli, such as socialization and entertainment. It seems that many modern-day online platforms use the knowledge of human psychology to encourage users to spend more time online. For example, the likes system introduced on Facebook, Instagram, and other social media targets individuals’ sense of worth. The more likes users get, the more content they are motivated to create. Considering that many Internet sources aim to provoke an emotional response, it is valid to say that one of the best ways to avoid Internet addiction is to make offline life more interesting and eventful. In addition, it is important to enhance self-discipline, awareness, and willpower to control own behavior better.