Networkoholism, i.e. dependence on the Internet

The modern world is moving between real and virtual life. The development of the IT industry has resulted in optimal computerization of life, IT solutions accompany us almost every step of the way.

The Internet has become a basic communication tool and a source of information, it is hard to imagine a proper functioning without this tool. Many people can't imagine how to function properly without daily online news or social media contact. Through the network you can pay bills, make purchases, order services. It is also an endless source of entertainment.

Network access is provided not only by computers and laptops, but also by mobile devices such as tablets and smartphones. Undoubtedly, the Internet has a significant impact on the development of science, culture and business, but it is also a major threat to modern people, so it is necessary to exercise moderation in surfing the web.

Dependence on the Internet and its cause

It is indisputable that the Internet makes life much easier and that is where its strength lies. By using network resources, we save time and effort necessary to perform many everyday activities, such as shopping or settling bills. It is not known from today that a person quickly gets used to comforts, while at the same time becoming dependent on the broadly understood amenities. In other words, the Internet user often loses contact with reality and learns many activities necessary for proper functioning.

Why go to a bank to pay your bills when you can do it online without leaving home? The same applies to shopping or contacts with friends. Many people also choose to work over the network.

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When does networkoholism begin?

It may seem that there is nothing wrong with using network resources - after all, the Internet was created to make people's lives easier. In fact, there is a lot of reason for this statement, but nevertheless, moderation in the use of network resources should be maintained. The threat comes when the Internet becomes not only a tool, but a way of life. We are talking about situations when a person ceases to participate in real life, putting the virtual world in the foreground.

Networkoholism most often threatens people affected by social defects, shy people, those with difficulties in establishing contacts, those with reduced self-esteem, those who do not know their own needs or those who have difficulties in defining life goals and their consistent implementation.

The threat of networkoholism most often affects young people, standing at the beginning of their adult lives, for whom knowledge of the Internet and IT solutions is the proverbial daily bread.

The problem arises when a person strives for a perfect knowledge of the latest IT solutions, while resigning from many integration and family activities. In other words, traditional interpersonal solutions take second place, giving way to activities in the virtual world. The risk of becoming addicted to the Internet also applies to adults, who are professionally active and for whom the Internet is an essential tool for work and communication.

Continuous staying in the virtual world makes people disengage from reality, neglecting interpersonal contacts. The Internet is a substitute for a perfect life without worries and problems, so it is no wonder that most people flee to the proverbial better world. It is worth remembering, however, that excessive surfing on the Internet is a simple way to alienation, loneliness, lack of fulfilment, therefore it is important not to cross the delicate border separating the real world from the virtual world.