Internet Addiction...Is Your Teen Trapped
June 17, 2008
Internet Addiction...Is Your Teen Trapped?
By Luke Gilkerson Internet Community Manager Covenant Eyes
The Internet is one of the most significant technological advancements made in the last century, and it has profoundly reshaped our culture and habits: from how we stay in touch with one another and find entertainment, to how we shop and conduct research. The Internet is a digital canvas that can be accessed by nearly anyone with a computer, and with this comes great benefit . . . and potential danger.
The Internet delivers massive volumes of information, images, and messages at high speeds. Some of this content can be highly addictive, and when online access is unrestrained, the Internet can become a tool that accelerates addiction.
For instance, one common Internet addiction is online gambling. While gambling addiction is a well-known problem, the Internet delivers access to virtually every form of gambling into the privacy of our homes. People who wouldn't have otherwise found themselves in a casino now have the casino delivered to them. The same can be said of online gaming, workaholism, compulsive shopping . . . and yes, pornography. Teens who wouldn't otherwise have easy access to porn are now the largest group of Internet porn viewers.
Take Action
So how can you, as a parent, know if your child is developing an Internet addiction?
Have you noticed an increased amount of time on the computer? Does your child seem to crave more and more time online?
Is there an air of privacy around Internet use? Maybe you've walked in on your teen with the computer screen turned away from the door. When you come close to the computer, do you notice your teen quickly shifting what is visible on the screen? Do they shut off the computer or screen altogether? Do you often find the door to the computer room locked?
Are they defensive and protective about their time online? Maybe you've confronted them about the amount of time they spend online and have been met with anger or frustration.
Are they neglecting time with family, chores, or school work?
Have you noticed personality changes? Do they seem irritable until they get online? Do they seem to have a sense of "well-being" while on the computer? Do they seem restless, moody, or depressed if their Internet use is cut short? Internet addictions have a way of engulfing someone emotionally.
Is there a change in sleep patterns? Have you ever caught your teen on the computer late at night or early in the morning? Often the largest bulk of free time to use the Internet is at night.
Have you noticed physical symptoms such as dry eyes, migraine headaches, backaches, eating irregularities (skipping meals), neglecting personal hygiene, etc.? These can be signs of too much time spent at the computer.
Where do you start if you think your child has a problem? While these are all possible indicators of an Internet addiction, in the end the best way to know if your child has developed an addiction is to engage in open and honest communication with your teen. As one expert writes, "A warm and communicative parent-child relationship is the most important nontechnical means that parents can use to deal with the challenges of the sexualized media environment" (Patricia M. Greenfield, Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology).
Be practical about avoiding Internet addiction. Keep the lines of communication open about the expectation of Internet use. Set guidelines early and stick to them. Put the computer in a more central and open location so you can more easily monitor how it is used. Teach responsible online behavior: show your children the great benefits of the Internet while showing them how to balance their time—online and off-line.
Scripture
Psalm 101:3
I will set nothing wicked before my eyes.
June 15 Prayer
"Heavenly Father, as you have given us charge over children and young people, help us help them discern wicked from good, vile from pure. As we parent and nurture these young ones, give us wisdom when to ask the hard questions or when to be more attentive. It is only by Your grace!
"In Jesus' name, Amen!"
As you and your friends join together in the iCare initiative, please remember to meditate on this specific prayer in the coming weeks. There is great power when God's people unite in prayer!
iCare Mission
To call Christian women and their friends to prayer and action for the protection of our children and young people from the sexualized messages of the culture.
To educate women to the immediate danger of sexual exploitation and experimentation made possible by wireless technologies and mobile entertainment.
To mobilize women to join together and provide them effective action steps to protect the nation's children and youth.
We Can Help
The National Coalition provides a toll-free HelpLine that offers support, crisis intervention, consultation, education and referrals. Services are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. eastern time by calling (800) 583-2964.
National Coalition for the Protection of Children & Families 800 Compton Road, Suite 9224 · Cincinnati, Ohio 45231 Phone: (513) 521-6227 · HelpLine: (800) 583-2964 http://www.nationalcoalition.org
