Internet Addiction Affects Adolescent Behavior and Development
According to a recent study by UCL researchers published in PLOS Mental Health, adolescents experiencing internet addiction undergo brain changes that may contribute to further addictive behaviors. The study reviewed 12 articles from 2013 to 2023, involving 237 young individuals aged 10-19 diagnosed with internet addiction.
The individual’s inability to resist the urge to use the internet characterizes internet addiction, detrimentally impacting their psychological wellbeing, as well as their social, academic, and professional lives.
Researchers utilized functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to examine the functional connectivity—how different brain regions interact—of participants diagnosed with internet addiction, both during rest and while performing tasks.
Impact of Internet Addiction on Adolescent Neural Networks
The study revealed widespread effects of internet addiction on various neural networks in the adolescent brain. There was observed variation in activity levels within the default mode network, which is active during resting periods. Additionally, there was an overall decrease in functional connectivity within the executive control network, responsible for active cognition.
These changes are associated with the development of addictive behaviors and tendencies in adolescents, affecting intellectual abilities, physical coordination, mental health, and overall development.
Lead author Max Chang, an MSc student at UCL’s Great Ormond Street Institute for Child Health, commented: “Adolescence is a critical stage of development characterized by significant biological, cognitive, and personality changes. Consequently, the adolescent brain is particularly susceptible to urges related to internet addiction, such as compulsive internet use, cravings for mouse or keyboard interaction, and media consumption.”
Behavioral and Developmental Consequences of Internet Addiction
“Our study findings indicate that these outcomes could result in adverse behavioral and developmental consequences that may affect adolescents’ lives. For instance, they might encounter challenges in maintaining relationships and participating in social activities, engage in deceptive behavior regarding online activities, and experience irregular eating patterns and disrupted sleep.”
With smartphones and laptops becoming increasingly accessible, internet addiction is becoming a prevalent issue worldwide. Previous studies have highlighted that individuals in the UK spend more than 24 hours online per week, with over half of respondents self-reporting internet addiction.
Meanwhile, Ofcom reported that among the 50 million internet users in the UK, more than 60% acknowledged negative impacts from their internet usage, such as tardiness or neglecting responsibilities.
Irene Lee’s Perspective on Internet Usage
Irene Lee, senior author from UCL’s Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, remarked, “While the internet offers clear advantages, when its use begins to disrupt daily life, it becomes problematic.”
“We recommend that young people establish sensible limits on their daily internet use and recognize the psychological and social consequences of excessive online time,” she added.
Mr. Chang further stated, “We anticipate our findings will illustrate how internet addiction modifies the interplay among brain networks during adolescence, aiding healthcare providers in better screening and treating the onset of internet addiction.”
“Clinicians could potentially prescribe targeted treatments focusing on specific brain regions or recommend therapies like psychotherapy or family counseling tailored to address key symptoms of internet addiction.”
Importance of Parental Education on Internet Addiction
“Crucially, educating parents about internet addiction could serve as another avenue for prevention from a public health perspective. Parents informed about early signs and onset of internet addiction can more effectively manage screen time, impulsivity, and mitigate risk factors associated with internet addiction.”
Limitations of the study include the current constraints in utilizing fMRI scans to explore internet addiction, with studies predominantly involving small samples of adolescents from Asian countries. Future research should seek to compare findings from Western samples to enhance understanding and inform therapeutic interventions.
Read the original article on: Science Daily
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