Internet Addiction in Teenagers

Since 2007, L. Jay Mitchell has overseen operations for the Greenbrier School for Girls, which maintains membership in the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs. Under L. Jay Mitchell’s leadership, Greenbrier Academy provides therapeutic programming for teenage girls dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, and addiction.

In a 2016 survey by Common Sense Media, more than 50 percent of teenagers said they feel addicted to their mobile devices and 75 percent said they feel pressure to respond immediately to social media posts and texts. When Internet and social media usage begins to crowd out other activities such as sports, socializing, and eating, the habit may require intervention.

To recognize the signs of Internet addiction, parents should note whether their teen is spending two-thirds or more of their free time online and if they are withdrawing from friends and family and normal hobbies. They should also evaluate if the teen talks about the Internet when they are not using it, or if they lie about their time online. Finally, is the habit interfering with sleep or causing physical symptoms such as eye strain or headaches? If so, parents may wish to seek more information or consult a therapist trained in Internet addiction among teenagers.