What is Pathological

Internet addiction (IA) is typically defined as a condition where an individual has lost control of their internet use and proceeds to use the internet excessively to the point where he/she experiences problematic consequences which ultimately have a negative effect on his/her life. The authors examine what constitutes an addiction, the definition of internet addiction, the complications which exist in the various diagnostic methods of successfully diagnosing internet addiction, the criticism some of these diagnostic methods have taken and the effects of excessive internet use by both students and employees. They also highlight those individuals who are of increased risk of developing this condition including positive diagnosis of the addiction and the resultant effects it has on the individual's family life, employment, social life and personal wellbeing, before finally looking at possible methods and treatments that can be employed for treating internet addiction.