Schools accommodation: room, modem, labs, netscape, explorer, e-mail, courses, teaching, Gettysburg distance learning

Internet dependence not addictionUse of the Internet on college campuses has increased dramatically in recent years, leading to pathological use, or

Internet addiction, for some students. Internet addiction is defined as a psychological dependence on the Internet

and is characterized by (a) an increasing investment of resources on Intemet-related activities, (b) unpleasant

feelings (e.g., anxiety, depression, emptiness) when offline, (c) an increasing tolerance to the effects of being

online, and (d) denial of the problematic behaviors. Individuals exhibiting such symptoms often are dealing with

underlying psychological issues. College students are particularly vulnerable to pathological Internet use due to

several factors. These factors include (a) the psychological and developmental characteristics of late

adolescence/young adulthood, (b) ready access to the Internet, and (c) an expectation of computer/Intemet use. The

nature of the computer medium and the sense of control experienced when engaged in computer activities can also

contribute to the potential for problematic computer/Intemet use. Research on Internet addiction is in its infancy.

The need for greater understanding of Internet addiction and its treatment is noted.

1.Do you feel preoccupied with the Internet (think about previous on-line

activity or anticipate next on-line session)?

2.Do you feel the need to use the Internet with increasing amounts of

time in order to achieve satisfaction?

3.Have you repeatedly made unsuccessful efforts to control, cut back,

or stop Internet use?

4.Do you feel restless, moody, depressed, or irritable when attempting

to cut down or stop Internet use?

5.Do you stay on-line longer than originally intended?

6.Have you jeopardized or risked the loss of significant relationship, job,

educational or career opportunity because of the Internet?

7.Have you lied to family members, therapist, or others to conceal the

extent of involvement with the Internet?

8.Do you use the Internet as a way of escaping from problems or of

relieving a dysphoric mood (e.g., feelings of helplessness, guilt,

anxiety, depression)?