http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IrlD3yh8bDE
This news clip with Katie Couric gives insight into why Internet addiction is the same as any other addiction, just as we briefly discussed in class. I too strongly believe there is no difference between Internet addiction and any other addiction, it is equally as threatening as a drug or alcohol addiction could be. If anything, Internet addiction might be more dangerous because the Internet is so easily accessible, especially with the popularity of smart phones. No one is safe from Internet Addiction, kids are just as susceptible as adults. Do you agree that Internet addiction is the same as any other addiction? Or do you believe there is a distinct difference? Are there any addictions you can think of that are less harmful than others?
I read an article that described other addictions that may not be considered as dangerous but are becoming extremely common in our society. Here is a list (http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/asia/article5125324.ece):
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Tanorexia
An unhealthy dependence on tanning, so called because of its similarities to body image disorders such as anorexia. Withdrawal symptoms have been described as similar to those of alcohol and drug addictions
Shopaholism
Compulsive shopping affects 20 million Americans. It describes an uncontrollable urge to buy items that are never used, sometimes never even removed from the bag
Nomophobia
The fear of being without a mobile phone. An estimated 53 per cent of us experience acute anxiety if we find ourselves without our mobile or are forced to switch it off
Cosmetic surgery addiction
According to a 2006 study, 40 per cent of patients using Botox had a compulsive urge for further treatment. The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons has drawn up a checklist to help surgeons to spot addicts
I agree that Internet addiction is a legitimate condition and it is dangerous due to it's accessibility, although I do not believe it is the same as any other addiction. Addictions that are drug induced and effect your permanent physical state and can also kill you after just one use, are in my mind on a whole other level. With most internet addicts I would assume their addiction was a gradual progression, and they weren't hooked after the first use. Even though Internet addiction can be very disruptive in ones life, the medical aspect of it is not nearly as life threatening as other addictions.
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