Internet addiction classified as a disorder

Posted by Linda Curtis On Thursday, January 12th 2012 in Technology

A recent study revealed that people who have problems controlling or stopping their use of internet, have abnormal white matter structures in the brain. These matters are similar to those that are developed in the cases of cocaine and crystal-meth addicts. The authors of the study also added that "Internet addiction disorder is becoming a serious mental-health issue around the world."

The study was published this week in the journal PLoS One. In it, the disorder is described as being "problematic". It is added that pathologic use of the computer can interfere with one’s life and put a strain on school, work, family life and social relationships.

Hao Lei, a member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Wuhan, was the leader of the study. He and his team checked the brains of 17 teenagers and young adults with ages ranging from 14 to 24 years old. These 17 patients were diagnosed with Internet addiction. Their brains were compared to those of 16 other, regular, people.

People were diagnosed with Internet addictions disorder after answering to the questions: ” Do you feel preoccupied with the Internet? Do you stay online longer than originally intended? Do you feel restless, moody, depressed or irritable when attempting to cut down or stop Internet use?”

Because of the white matter structure in their brains, those suffering from internet addiction disorder also suffered from cravings, compulsive-repetitive behaviours and poor decision-making. When talking about a treatment the authors of the study said:

"Recent studies have shown that physical or pharmacological treatments may improve white matter integrity," they wrote.