Mass Media Functions to socialize:

• Mass Media Functions to socialize:

  • provides information
  • contact with others
  • viewpoints on issues
  • access to consumer culture
  • entertainment
  • education?

• Positive and negative aspects

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While we are accustomed to complaints that children (or adults) watch too much television, a new mass media problem has emerged since 1994- Internet Addiction. The American Psychiatric Association has recognized Internet Addition Disorder. Some indications include:

1.Tolerance- needing more time online to achieve satisfaction.

2. Withdrawal symptoms that develop within a few days to a month after reducing or stopping use. The resumption of use decreases the symptoms.

3. Use of the Internet more often for longer periods of time. And spending time on Internet related activities (reading books, trying out software, etc.)

4. Neglect of other important life activities.

5. Excessive use impacts negatively on job, relationship, or other role obligations.

Some research has indicated that middle aged women and people already prone to depression and bipolar disorders are most likely to develop this disorder. The subject has been studied by psychologists. See:

http://www.apa.org/releases/internet.html

http://www.chem.vt.edu/chem-dept/dessy/honors/papers/ferris.html

http://rdz.stjohns.edu/~storm/iad.html

The Center for On-Line Addiction http://netaddiction.com/ offers empirical research and includes a survey you can take online to see if you are affected. And on a lighter note, there’s the site Internet Junkies Anonymous which offers a 12 step program online. http://members.aol.com/Iainmacn/addicts/

What sociological explanations could there be for this disorder?