Addicted to the Internet? You may have ADHD

A study performed at Kaohsiung Medical University in Taiwan set out to investigate the links between emotional conditions such as anxiety, depression and ADHD and Internet addiction. Two thousand fourteen students, 1204 male and 910 female, were assessed for all of the above factors using a self-report questionnaire.

The results showed that Internet addiction is associated with ADHD, depression, and hostility in males, while it is associated with ADHD and depression in females. Researchers noted that adolescent girls who had an Internet addiction didn’t display the hostility issues demonstrated by the adolescent boys. Social anxiety appeared to be a factor for both sexes.

The difference is striking, pointing yet again to the idea that females are much less likely to feel comfortable expressing hostility toward external sources. This difference could be based on a difference in social expectations. It is considered much more acceptable for males to display hostility problems than it is for females.

Internet addiction is characterized by someone’s inability to control the amount of time they spend online, neglect of responsibilities due to time spent online, and a preference for spending time online over forming intimate relationships. As with any other addiction, Internet addiction is often an attempt to escape from negative emotions and unwanted situations. Addictions are sometimes used as a way to cope with untreated emotional disorders. The link between ADHD, depression and Internet addiction comes as no surprise.

Researchers suggest that these findings show a need for greater diagnosis and treatment of ADHD and depression amongst adolescents. Teens are very likely to self-medicate their untreated disorders with a number of addictions including drugs, alcohol, and overuse of the Internet. As more research reveals a direct link between addictions and emotional disorders, a greater need for treating the real problems will surface.

© Copyright 2007 Insight Journal Online Magazine.

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