Paradoxical as it might seem the Internet, which is being touted as a broad socializing medium is silently causing social isolation among some of the users. In some countries like Korea and China, increasing number of adolescents are addicted to online gaming portals seriously damaging their personal and social lives. Internet addiction related deaths in these countries has forced the governments to take a new regulatory approach to managing the Internet. Studies proclaiming a positive correlation between Internet usage and pre-existing behavioral anomalies suggest a new out look into the problem. It is essential that researchers study increasing Internet association from a causative perspective as this would help identify the underlying behavioral issues and help design appropriate rehabiliatory measures. Resistance to treatment, and high relapse rates make Internet addiction a serious issue. Creating awareness about this silent menace coupled with active Parental supervision and governmental regulatory measures would be an ideal interventional approach. The explosive growth of the Internet makes it a high priority to intervene appropriately to limit its deranging influence on our youth. Bibliography

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