Ghost at the machine : Internet addiction and compulsive computer use

Technology use-particularly the use of the Internet-is a pervasive component of modem society. The Internet has changed the way we work and the way we play, creating new possibilities for self expression and communication. But it also enables (and possibly encourages) compulsive behavior. Internet Addiction is the compulsive use of the computer and the Internet. Internet use is considered compulsive when the user engages in the behavior to such an extent that he is no longer able to meet his responsibilities and physical and emotional needs. Case studies and experts from the realms of medicine and media studies provide a description of the disorder and some of the causes that contribute to the dysfunctional behavior. The author also tackles a larger question: What does Internet Addiction mean in the context of our modem society?

Department dc:contributor.department

Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Graduate Program in Science Writing

Grantor dc:publisher

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Year dc:date.issued

2008

Author dc:creator

• VanCott, Rachel Diane

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Alan Lightman.

• Graduate Program in Science Writing.

Statement dc:rights

• M.I.T. theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from this source for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without written permission. See provided URL for inquiries about permission.

Licence dc:rights.uri

• http://dspace.mit.edu/handle/1721.1/7582

Language dc:language.iso

eng

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/45341

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:dspace.mit.edu:1721.1/45341