There is no doubt that the use of new technologies is an integral part of most children’s daily lives. Children know that the Internet is an excellent means of education, information, entertainment and communication. But what they seem to find difficult to understand is that using the Internet can also be dangerous. One of the most serious risks is addiction.
So, while the Internet is becoming increasingly popular with children, children’s hospitals are now running clinics for children who are addicted.
What does Internet addiction mean and what are the symptoms of Internet addiction in children?
- Internet use is emerging as the most important activity in a child’s daily life
- The child’s mood automatically changes with the use of the Internet (he/she is happy as soon as he/she comes into contact with it)
- The child needs more and more hours of Internet use over time in order to feel pleasure
- Internet interruption invites discomfort, anger, tension and aggressive behaviour on the child’s behalf
- The child feels that he or she cannot regain control to limit Internet use
General signs of addiction:
- The child is constantly surfing the Internet, largely neglecting his/her school and daily life obligations
- The child uses the Internet for many hours and sometimes during the night, so that the child is unable to keep up with the school schedule
- Performance at school is reduced
- The child becomes isolated as he/she seeks to play games online and not to associate with peers
- The child neglects his/her physical hygiene and appearance
In all cases, the parents:
- Set a specific internet use schedule to which they remain committed
- Define family activities within the daily routine
- Discreetly supervise their child’s behaviour before, during and after use
- Consult relevant Hotlines and Helplines for any concerns or worries in order to get guidance from a psychologist
Teachers:
- Organise relevant prevention programmes to raise awareness and educate students
- Are in constant communication with the family environment and inform about possible changes that the child may present in the school context. These changes may concern both performance and behavioural changes.
- Consult relevant Hotlines and Helplines for any concerns or worries in order to get guidance from a psychologist.