Internet addiction impairs brain function in adolescents

Adolescents struggling with Internet addiction face significant alterations in their brain function, which could precipitate new addictive behaviors and developmental problems.

A recent study by UCL researchers has highlighted the profound effects of excessive internet use on young minds, particularly those aged 10 to 19.

This decade-long study, from 2013 to 2023, examined the results of 12 articles collectively examining 237 adolescents officially diagnosed as Internet addicts.

Internet addiction impacts brain function

Internet addiction, characterized by an uncontrollable urge to engage online despite adverse consequences, can disrupt an individual's psychological well-being and interfere with their social, academic, and professional lives.

Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), researchers observed the brain's functional connectivity – or how different regions interact – both at rest and during task performance.

Experts have noticed a trend of both increasing and decreasing activity in the default mode network, which is active during rest.

Even more worrying, there has been a significant reduction in connectivity within the executive control network, which is essential for active thinking and decision-making.

Consequences of impaired brain function

These neurological changes can manifest as addictive behaviors and declines in various aspects of cognitive and physical abilities, including intellectual ability, coordination, mental health, and overall development.

“Adolescence is a crucial stage of development. The brain's susceptibility to internet-related compulsions during this time – such as incessant mouse clicking or media consumption – can have disastrous consequences,” noted Max Chang, lead author and masters student at UCL Great Ormond Street Institute for Child Health.

Chang highlighted some of the potential impacts on adolescent behavior and development, such as difficulty maintaining social relationships, dishonesty in online activities, and disruptions to normal eating and sleeping patterns.

Global concern over internet addiction

With the increasing availability of smartphones and laptops, internet addiction is a growing problem worldwide.

In the UK alone, people spend on average more than 24 hours online each week, with many admitting to their compulsive internet use.

Additionally, an Ofcom report indicates that more than 60% of the UK's 50 million internet users perceive their online habits as having a detrimental effect on their personal lives, often leading to delays or neglect of responsibilities .

Combating Internet Addiction in Teenagers

“While the Internet offers undeniable benefits, it becomes problematic when it begins to encroach on our daily routines,” noted the study's lead author, Irene Lee.

She recommends that teens set reasonable limits on their Internet use and educate themselves about the psychological and social effects of excessive online engagement.

Chang is optimistic about the implications of their findings for treating and preventing Internet addiction. “Our research could help doctors better understand and treat Internet addiction in adolescents,” he said.

Treatments may target specific regions of the brain or involve psychotherapy and family therapy to combat the core symptoms of Internet addiction.

Additionally, educating parents about the signs of digital addiction could be a crucial preventative measure, helping them manage their children's screen time and impulsive behaviors more effectively.

The study not only sheds light on the underlying brain changes caused by Internet addiction, but also highlights the need for proactive measures to mitigate its impact on adolescent health and development.

Impacts on mental and physical health

Internet addiction among adolescents goes beyond alterations in brain function. This can have serious mental health consequences, leading to increased anxiety, depression and social isolation.

Teenagers may develop poor academic performance due to excessive screen time that interferes with their study habits and concentration. This addiction often disrupts sleep patterns, causing fatigue and difficulty concentrating during the day.

Physical health can also suffer, with increased risks of obesity and associated conditions due to sedentary behavior. Additionally, excessive Internet use can hinder the development of essential social skills, making it more difficult for adolescents to engage in face-to-face interactions.

Cyberbullying and exposure to inappropriate content are also significant concerns, which can lead to emotional distress and a distorted perception of reality.

Overall, Internet addiction can create a cascade of negative effects, impacting an adolescent's holistic development and well-being, requiring proactive measures to ensure balanced and healthy Internet use.

The study is published in the journal PLOS Mental Health.

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