Prevention of Internet Addiction in Children

Psychologists compare internet addiction to any other form of dependency. Replace the word "computer" with "narcotic substances" or "alcohol" – and you'll understand that internet obsession fits within the classic definition of addiction. It offers a way to escape reality, pleasant feelings, and an alternative reality that masks depression or anxiety. It can also cause changes in the normal functioning of the brain, stimulating pleasure centers. Social interactions on the internet pose a greater danger than television, as they offer communication with other people. Pretending to be new identities, people may start believing that they are loved and cared for because of their new personas. People need friends; they feel the need to belong. Without such relationships, they may experience serious personal and social problems. However, the ability to communicate with people outside the family circle must be nurtured. In addition to offering an easy alternative, artificial cyberworlds are also an enticing replacement, especially for young teenagers, whose shyness can complicate their social interactions. The internet completely captures a child, leaving them neither time nor energy for other activities or organizing their developing identity.

There is a "risk group" among students who may be prone to "internet addiction." They are introverted, unsociable, or lack communication skills, yet are intelligent. They can be easily distinguished by their behavior: they are absorbed in themselves, fantasizing a lot, keeping away from classmates, and sometimes falling behind in subjects. As a result, children who possess individual inner psychological ability or skill to overcome stressful situations, transforming them into various types of searching activity, are much more resistant to any kind of addiction. The preventive program is aimed not only at this group but at all school students, as it is universal. Psychiatrist Ivan Goldberg, creator of the interactive support group for internet-addicted individuals, suggested five tips for overcoming this addiction.

Overcoming Internet Addiction

  1. Acknowledge your addiction. "Pathological computer use" can be recognized by the "symptoms" of compulsive need, skipped lessons and meetings, forgotten and undone homework, loss of contact with friends and family.

  2. Identify the problems underlying the addiction. Depending on the person's age, issues such as uncertainty about the future, difficulty keeping up with school, or social relationship problems may drive a child to escape into welcoming virtual worlds.

  3. Solve real-life problems. Trying to avoid stressful situations only makes them more complicated. You can find a tutor to help with homework, assist in starting to solve social difficulties, write about what is "eating" you, or even consult a specialist.

  4. Control computer usage. It’s not necessary to completely turn off the computer – simply limit the time spent on the internet. Depending on the child's age, parents or the student themselves can take responsibility for this. All activities should be prioritized. Online communication should not take place before homework or other responsibilities are completed.

  5. Make a distinction between interactive fantasy and useful internet use.

Viktor Dragunsky: A Life in Stories and Laughter
Methodological Guidelines for Preparing and Conducting the Final Essay in the 2016/2017 Academic Year
Notification of Changes to the Quarterly Report Text
Roadmap for Organizing and Conducting Activities to Improve Teaching Quality, Enhance Teacher Qualifications, and Prepare Graduating Students for State Final Certification at Secondary School No. 2, Makaryev for the 2016-17 School Year
Improved Model of the Methodological Service Structure in the Context of Modern Educational Standards