Internet and Television Addiction

Internet overuse is excessive computer use ( more than eight hours daily ), that interferes with life. This addiction is said to be one of the extreme addictive disorders. The first group affected is the teenagers and the other are the above 50 group; those facing the 'empty nest' ( children leaving home) phase. Sufferers may experience loss of sleep and loss of work, and periods of deep depression. The fantasy world of the internet helps them to psychologically escape unpleasant feelings or stressful situations. The more depressed a person gets the more chances there are, that they might use internet or watch television for filling the void.
Television addiction becomes a problem when a person does not want to watch TV but experiences an uncontrollable impulse to start or continue watching; while other priorities might be suffering. The withdrawal symptoms come in form of anxiety; watching TV over long periods of time causes lack of motivation and feelings of listlessness, depressions, and anger.

Addictions/Dependencies:

Addiction occurs when an individual becomes physically dependent on a substance. Individuals may become addicted to or have compulsive behaviors in regard to almost anything, including sex, food, exercise, spending money, work, and the internet.
A combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors may incline individuals to developing addictions. Initially, the addiction gives a person an elevated feeling ( a high ); the person believes that he/she is in control and powerful. This desire may stem from underlying causes, such as depression, stress, or low self-esteem, yet others may just try out of curiosity or peer pressure. Once a person becomes addicted to a substance, it causes chemical changes in the brain that lead to intense cravings.
Addictions may lead to social or interpersonal problems, and may cause some people to do things they normally would not ( such as lie or steal ) to fulfill their addictions. Due to this, the person may have strained relationships with friends, family members, and loved ones. Individuals who are addictive typically engage in riskier behaviors; they may developing infectious diseases ( such as HIV or hepatitis ) or get involved with wrong company.
                    Because individuals with addictions often deny they have problems, it is important for friends, family, coworkers, and to others to watch for warning signs of addiction. When people  are aware that a person close to them has an addiction problem, they should try to persuade the person to undergo some screening to confirm. People with addictions share may of the same behavioral signs and symptoms. They may lie about their behaviors, deny they have problems, or be extra secretive.

Learn The Lingo:

The text message language started with character limit for a text message, but now the use of abbreviations is quite common for convenience in swift response. You might know that LOL means "laughing Out Loud", but do you know what DUSL or PIR means?
A parent might not know if the message was innocent or had more deviant intentions unless familiar with the language. Abbreviations can also be part of a private way to communicate amongst friends, without raising parents concern. If you know that DUSL means ( Do you Scream Loud ), or that PIR means ( Parents in Room), you will have a better idea on what your kids are saying and doing with their friends. Language is an essential way to communicate; if you want to communicate with your children, learn their lingo.

Embrace the Technology:

Embracing the technology that kids use, will increase chances of improving communication with them. Instead of calling your daughter to find out what time she will be home, send her a text message. Rather than trying to get your son to watch a segment on TV about the risks of texting while driving, send him a link to the video. This will not keep the parents abreast with the latest technology, but will also increase the respect of parents for the teenager.

How can Parents Help? Guidelines and Healthy Boundaries:

Educate and talk to your kids about the dangers and responsibilities associated with using a cell phone. Explain the difference between acceptable and unacceptable behavior. Make sure to set time limits to use and when it should be turned off and placed in the parent's care. Without clearly defined guidelines, your teenager could be misguided and end up being victim.