A recent study from the University of Surrey in the United Kingdom has proposed a scale to measure internet addiction, breaking down users into five distinct categories based on their usage patterns and emotional dependence.
Expert researchers in the field have painstakingly delineated what they consider, constitutes an addiction. The categories range from casual users to outright addicts, with three intermediate stages in between.
Brigitte Stangl, who spearheaded the study, stated that their mission was to shed light on the distinction between problematic internet usage and genuine addiction.
The study gathered data from nearly 800 participants from varying age groups and demographics, who were subsequently categorized into “addicts,” “addicts-in-denial,” “experimenters,” “initial users,” and “casual users.”
A key focus of the study was investigating how different levels of addiction severity modulate users’ experiences with cutting-edge applications like augmented reality. Almost 22.36 per cent of respondents openly recognized their dependence on the internet while appreciating its adverse impact on their lives.
The users falling under the “addicts” tag were found to be the most adept at using new technological applications. Another 17.96 per cent showcased compulsive behaviors but showed no signs of discomfort when unconnected to the internet. This group, categorized as “addicts-in-denial,” were noticed to consistently neglect real-world responsibilities.
The “experimenters,” typically anxious when not connected to the internet, manifested a penchant for exploring new technological applications. About 21.98 per cent of respondents fell into this category, mostly aged between 22.8 and 24.3 years.
A further group, classified as “initial users,” was described as individuals who use the internet for specific tasks but tend to stay online inadvertently for extended periods. They were “somewhat neglectful” of their real-world obligations but did not perceive themselves to be addicted.
Lastly, the “casual users,” typically older in age, used the internet strictly for defined tasks and then promptly logged off, displaying no addictive traits.
The findings of the research highlight the need for distinct interventions and support mechanisms for individuals at different stages of internet addiction.
In the digital age, internet usage patterns can offer interesting insights into people’s lifestyles and preferences. However, on an entirely different spectrum, the advent of technology has also given rise to a new form of entertainment: online casinos. For those interested in switching up their screen time with some thrilling games, we at the West Island Blog highly recommend exploring this option. We offer a comprehensive list of the best online casinos for the month, to guide you in your quest for a rewarding pastime. Do remember, however, to engage in such activities responsibly and seek assistance if needed. You can find the list here.
