Media Addictions

Media Addiction is as real as any other addictions. Most people are familiar with drugs and alcohol addictions, some are quite aware of gambling addictions but very few people actually, think of Media Addiction. Media Addiction is the umbrella term use for people who are dealing with an addiction to video games, cell phones, pornography, online games, and social media. 

Studies have found that there is a strong correlation between depression and other mental illnesses and the amount of time spent in front of a digital screen. Teens and adolescents who are struggling and already suffering from some emotional issues will turn to the digital world as an escape while others who are thriving can succumb to emotional issues through the overuse and misuse of the digital world.

Most parents are comfortable in providing their child with the latest video games, cell phones or computer/Ipads but little do they know that these objects can become the source of severe addiction in their child. Media Addiction fits the model of addiction because anyone engaging in compulsive behaviors despite the damage that it may cause to their lives is dealing with an addiction. 

Media Addiction Affects All:

Media Addiction affects not just teens and adolescents; it also affects young adults. Young adults are predominantly the most affected. It starts early on in adolescence when the intense pleasure was first experienced and gradually becomes worst into young adulthood where he or she is chasing another high or trying desperately not to experience withdrawal. The signs of withdrawal are subtle. It can manifest itself as simply experiencing pleasure by merely sitting in front of the computer.

Media Addiction is also very subtle after all; these screens are part of everyday life, but more and more individuals are becoming incapable of functioning without their smartphones. Millions of teens and young adults are playing Farmville on Facebook. They spend lots of money purchasing virtual things that they can never use in real life.  Media Addiction is more powerful than parents may think; it can override the rational part of the brain thus rendering all decision-making completely null.