What is it doing to teenage brains?

(© olly – stock.adobe.com)

Internet addiction is the problematic, compulsive use of the Internet that results in significant impairment in an individual’s functioning in various aspects of life, including social, work, and academic arenas.

Internet addiction is becoming a worldwide problem. Average individual screen time has increased to around three hours a day. Many people state that their use of the Internet is “compulsive”. In fact, more than 30 million of the UK’s 50 million Internet users admit that their regular and habitual use of the Internet is negatively affecting their personal lives by disrupting relationships and neglecting responsibilities.

Teens addicted to their Internet-connected devices have significant changes in their brain function, exacerbating addictive behaviors and halting normal development. Internet addiction, fueled by uncontrollable urges, disrupts their development, psychological well-being and every aspect of their lives – mental, emotional, social and physical.

A study by scientists at UCLA identified extensive changes in the brains of young people, especially those of children aged 10 to 19 years. A ten-year study, which ended in 2023, gathered findings from 237 teenagers who had been officially diagnosed with Internet addiction.

Effects on brain function

Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), the scientists examined different areas of the brain and different types of brain function both at rest and while performing tasks. Some parts of the brain showed increased activity, and some parts showed decreased activity. The most significant changes occurred in connectivity in the part of the brain critical for active thinking and decision making.

Changes in brain function manifest as addictive behaviors and deterioration in both thinking and physical abilities. The still immature adolescent brain underwent changes that negatively affected intellectual function, physical coordination, mental health, development and overall well-being.

The brain is at a particularly vulnerable stage of development in adolescence. It is more susceptible to Internet-related liabilities. Some of the compulsions were incessant mouse clicking and social media consumption. The damage can be profound, with serious consequences. It can manifest as problems maintaining relationships, lying about online activities, and eating and sleeping disorders. Sleep disruption interferes with daytime concentration and chronic fatigue.

Brain function isn’t the only thing that changes in teenagers with Internet addiction. Anxiety, depression and social isolation are all serious consequences of their overwhelming compulsions. Other important concerns include cyberbullying and exposure to inappropriate material, resulting in emotional distress and a distorted perception of reality.

Physical health deteriorates because the addicted teen is sedentary, which leads to weight gain, obesity, and related health conditions. Social skills suffer so much that face-to-face engagements are problematic. The teenager does not “grow out of it”.

Teen behavior experts agree that the Internet has significant benefits, but problems begin when computer use interferes with daily routines and responsibilities. Treatments may target specific brain regions or include psychotherapy and family therapy to address the underlying symptoms of Internet addiction. Additionally, educating parents about the signs of digital addiction can serve as a vital preventative measure, helping them to more effectively manage their children’s screen time and impulsive behaviors.

The study does more than reveal the underlying brain changes caused by Internet addiction. It also highlights the need for proactive measures to mitigate its impact on adolescent health and development.