Contributing Factors to Internet Addiction Yochanan Berkowitz

Contributing Factors to Internet Addiction

Zev Yochanan Berkowitz, a school psychologist and licensed social worker, treats addiction as one of his areas of professional focus. Zev Yochanan Berkowitz has written on the causes and impacts of Internet addiction.

Contributing Factors to Internet Addiction

A psychological disorder, Internet addiction leads to impulsive online activity and an inability to reduce this activity. Studies have shown that this condition is most common among young people and among those who struggle with anxiety or depression. Men in the third decade of life seem particularly susceptible to Internet addiction secondary to depression .

Contributing Factors to Internet Addiction

Some psychologists have theorized that for those with other emotional or mental health challenges, the Internet may become a form of self-medication. These individuals may turn to the Internet for emotional support from others, an end goal that may also appeal to people who are particularly shy or socially anxious. The social connection that the Internet provides then combines with the perceived positive changes in mood that an addictive behavior generates, which in turn makes the behavior more compulsive and leads to disturbances in daily functioning.