Internet addiction causes 'significant alterations' in teen brains, new study finds

Internet addiction is becoming a major global problem, with the average person spending three hours in front of a screen per day, and a new study reveals that heavy use is affecting young people's personal lives, disrupting relationships and leading to neglected responsibilities.

The study, led by UCLA scientists, indicates that teens addicted to their internet-connected devices experience significant changes in their brain function, worsening addictive behaviors and impeding normal development. The study highlights the profound impact of internet addiction on teens' mental, emotional, social and physical well-being, Study Finds reports.

The researchers conducted the 10-year study, which ended in 2023, with 237 adolescents officially diagnosed as internet addicts. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging, the scientists examined different areas of the brain at rest and while performing a task.

The results revealed increased and decreased activity in different brain regions, with significant changes observed in the connectivity of areas critical to active thinking and decision-making.

The study found that the still-developing brains of adolescents are particularly vulnerable to Internet-related compulsions, such as constant mouse clicking and excessive social media consumption. These compulsions disrupt brain function, leading to addictive behaviors and impairments in cognitive and physical abilities. These impairments have adverse effects on intellectual function, physical coordination, mental health, development, and overall well-being.

Experts point to the vulnerability of the adolescent brain at this critical stage of development, making it more susceptible to compulsive Internet use. Consequences include difficulty maintaining relationships, dishonesty about online activities, and disturbances in eating and sleeping habits. Sleep disturbances also lead to impaired concentration during the day and chronic fatigue.

Beyond brain function, internet addiction in teens is linked to serious issues such as anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Other concerns include cyberbullying and exposure to inappropriate content, which causes emotional distress and a distorted perception of reality. Physical health also deteriorates due to a sedentary lifestyle, leading to weight gain, obesity, and other related health problems.