Are you addicted to the Internet?

• Position: Up front: news, trends & analysis - Brief Article

To determine whether you are a Web addict, ask yourself these five questions:

1. Do you spend More time than intended online?

2. Do you neglect Other responsibilities as a result?

3. Have you tried Unsuccessfully to cut down on your Internet use?

4. Do you experience Significant relationship discord because of your use?

5. Do you have Excessive thoughts or anxiety when not online?

Two University of Florida psychiatrists devised the questions, which are based on the acronym MOUSE, for determining whether individuals are spending too much time online. Web surfing, e-mailing, instant messaging, gaming, shopping, downloading music, and visiting chat rooms can be troublesome when they interfere with a job or social life. Experts say those who call themselves problematic Internet users have, on average, five pre-existing psychiatric conditions, such as depression or alcohol abuse. Also, they went...