Problematic Internet Use: Its Underlying Components

Introduction

Whether we discuss the pros or drawbacks of the internet, there is an increase in problematic internet use worldwide, and the impacts can range in different dimensions, because it is simple to use, readily available, and has appealing features. Almost every sector of the economy is dependent on technology, whether it be in the legal, medical, or political spheres; they all use the internet and its applications to accomplish their objectives. The benefits include the ease with which information is accessible online, the speed with which one is connected to the rest of the world, and the efficient use of time in various pursuits. Its uses are numerous and spread throughout a variety of fields, including politics, law, and the medical field. Highton-Williamson et al. (2015) highlighted that an important goal of such online connections was to develop new friendships, seeking affectionate relationships, retain established connections or re-connect with individuals, and seek via the internet guidance from others with lived experience in a review of of online social networking in individuals with psychosis (Highton-Williamson et al. 2015). Naslund et al. (2020) examined social media's potential function as an effective intervention tool for providing support to people with mental illnesses, encouraging engagement and retention in treatment, and boosting already-existing mental health services. The study analysed prospects utilising data science and machine learning, such as using social media to identify mental problems and creating prediction models to describe the aetiology and course of mental disorders.

The author focuses on the changing patterns of the internet usage over the years. Due to its attractive features, a decade back, the internet was formerly just utilised for recreational activities, but now it has become an essential part of our daily life.

The emanation of digital devices has affected social life, reducing parent-child interaction and preferring video calls over face-to-face interactions. It has also replaced outdoor activities, especially those that affect mental as well as physical health.

This common occurrence is known as the “online disinhibition effect.” Though the impact has two opposing effects, the most worrying and concerning is when individuals reveal their personal information online. They let go of their inhibitions and reveal their secrets and unfulfilled wishes. They go out of their way to display compassion, humanity, and generosity in order to aid others, which is known as “benign disinhibition.”

Internet offers a platform, in which they can express their opinions, ideas and feelings, which in hand helps people to share which they can't when met in person. Though, it has its own benefits it poses threats for the people on the receiving end as well for the ones who are enagaging in the behaviour.

In conclusion, the internet has undeniably become a valuable tool for learning and exploration, but we must also be cautious about its potential pitfalls. Overdependence on the internet may indeed impair the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. As we've seen, a growing number of students are favoring online resources over traditional ones like books and journals, raising concerns about their capacity for critical thought and a comprehensive understanding of their subjects. The consequences of this trend may have far-reaching effects on education and intellectual growth. To address this challenge, it is imperative that we strike a balance, encouraging students to utilize the internet's advantages while not forsaking the benefits of traditional learning materials. It's a question of how we can navigate this digital era without losing the core skills that have been the foundation of education for generations.