Title : Virtual dependencies: Exploring the parallels between internet addiction and substance abuse in personality and behavioral transformation
Abstract:
Internet addiction is a phenomenon that has gained significant attention in recent years owing to the vast amounts of time that we are spending online and how we have become accustomed to use the internet for daily activities which may well be executed without the internet also. The similarity that internet addiction has with substance abuse disorders lies in many contexts such as an overlap in the clinical features, tolerance, withdrawal symptoms and a compulsion to engage in the behaviour despite being aware of the adverse consequences. Studies demonstrate that excessive internet use can lead to noticeable changes in personality traits and behaviors, akin to those observed in individuals battling substance use disorders.
The impact of internet addiction on personality is particularly profound, with research indicating that it can exacerbate traits such as neuroticism while decreasing conscientiousness and extraversion. Behavioural changes may manifest in social withdrawal, impaired interpersonal relationships, and neglect of responsibilities, mirroring the social and occupational impairments typical in substance abuse cases. Excessive internet usage or internet addiction also impacts cognitive functioning negatively resulting in poorer language and executive skills. Moreover, both internet addiction and substance abuse share neurological underpinnings, particularly involving the brain’s reward system, which suggests that compulsive engagement in these activities alters brain chemistry similarly. This intersection not only informs treatment strategies but also underscores the necessity for awareness and targeted interventions.
Understanding these parallels can enhance our approach to prevention and treatment. It emphasizes the importance of addressing not only the behavioral aspects but also the underlying emotional and psychological components that contribute to addiction. As society continues to navigate a digitally interconnected world, recognizing internet addiction as a potential behavioral addiction comparable to substance abuse is crucial for developing effective therapeutic frameworks.
