Internet Compulsion and Addiction Introduction

Internet Compulsion and Addiction

Introduction to the Issue of Compulsive Behavior and Addiction

Concepts of compulsion and addiction are most often considered in connection with inherently negative behaviors such as alcoholism, drug abuse, and other activities typically associated with excessive behavior. However, in principle, virtually any type of human behavior can be the source of compulsion and addiction. In most cases, the distinction between healthy and appropriate behaviors and unhealthy and inappropriate behaviors is more a matter of degree and circumstances of involvement rather than the inherent nature of the behavior itself. Even alcohol is capable of being consumed responsibly and without any addictive quality; but it is also susceptible to addictive misuse by some individuals (Gerrig & Zimbardo, 2008).

Other behaviors that are normally considered completely benign, such as shopping, snacking, and housecleaning (to name only a few of many) can also be the source of compulsion and addiction (Gerrig & Zimbardo, 2008). In general, any behavior that becomes an irrational or irresistible necessity for the individual that the individual is incapable of controlling can be the manifestation of compulsion and addiction (Gerrig & Zimbardo, 2008).

Compulsion and Addictive Behavior and the Internet

Since the introduction of the Internet in 1996 (then called the "World Wide Web"), it has become more integrated into American culture every year. A decade ago, computer processing power and the expense associated with advanced capabilities limited extensive computer use to professional business applications and those mainly used by middle and upper middle class students. After the turn of the 21st century, computer technology and capabilities advanced to the point that computer terminals became more accessible and their processing power supported complex applications such as those that enable modern social networking and other social communications via the Internet.

As is the case with so many other benign behaviors (and even behaviors that are generally useful and beneficial), the Internet became a source of compulsion and addictive behaviors for many of those who are already naturally inclined toward compulsivity and addiction (Gerrig & Zimbardo, 2008). Those who use the Internet appropriately generally establish routines for checking e-mail and may also regularly use the Internet for social networking and interpersonal communications. However, they do not characteristically spend ever-increasing amounts of time online; they do not neglect other aspects of their lives to pursue online activities, and they can function without becoming dependent on their Internet habits.