The Internet is inexpensive, convenient and seems anonymous. These attractive features of the Internet have a dark side. They are also conducive to addiction.
For the cybersex addict (or gambling, gaming, surfing or shopping addict) the convenience of the computer is comparable to an alcoholic having a fully stocked bar in the home, open 24 hours a day with a full time bartender encouraging him or her to drink. However, online there is no bartender to make the “last call.”
The convenience of instant access means there is no “think time” between impulse and the activity. Have you ever reconsidered a purchase because the item wasn’t readily available and you had time to “sleep on it?” Did you decide it wasn’t a good idea when you were away from the sales person and had time to mull it over?
The convenience of the computer also has an isolating effect. There is less human contact involved. We no longer browse the dress shop, go to the library to find a book, or go to the bank. When we do these tasks on line, we don’t relate to people, but to the transaction. Since we are social animals what is the effect of all this depersonalizing?
The privacy (not anonymity) of the Internet also has its problems. The consumer may sit for long periods of time, mesmerized by images. The filtering effect of conscience, values and good judgment are set aside. The “somebody might see me factor” constrains the shadow side in all of us and the criminal in others. When the user thinks “nobody will know,” he may wander into the labyrinths of cyberspace without the normal restraints of social mores.
The never-ending quality of the Internet — the techno version of what’s over the next hill or around the next bend — is like drug itself. People become addicted to the altered state that is induced and sometimes spend hours or days in their preferred Internet addiction.
- Are you preoccupied with Internet activity and always feeling you want to get back to the computer?
- Are you lying to others about your activities online or how much time or money you spend online?
- Do you use the Internet to escape feelings of boredom, loneliness, anxiety or depression?
If you answer yes to any of these questions, you may have a problem with the Internet. Talk to an Addiction Specialist or mental health professional in your area that can help you start Recovery. You can get your life back!
Sex Addiction Overview
