New Research Shows Disturbances in Adolescent Brain Due to Internet Addiction
A recent study, published in the journal Plos Mental Health, has revealed a connection between Internet addiction in adolescents and disturbances in the brain. Researchers have identified that adolescents diagnosed with Internet addiction exhibit a disruption in signal transmission between brain regions responsible for attention control and working memory.
These findings shed light on why many adolescents who are consumed by social networks and the Internet struggle to focus on important tasks such as schoolwork or meaningful communication with others. Malfunctions in these crucial brain areas can lead to distractions and difficulties in prioritizing tasks.
The study underscores the significance of moderate Internet and social media use during adolescence, a critical period of brain development. Excessive engagement in the virtual world can impair cognitive skills and the ability to concentrate on real-life responsibilities. Maintaining a balance and allocating sufficient time to activities that enhance attention and memory is essential.
An analysis of 12 neuroimaging studies involving hundreds of adolescents aged 10 to 19 between 2013 and 2022 highlighted the escalating concern about behavioral dependency linked to excessive internet use. Max Chang, the lead author of the research and a business manager at the non-profit organization Peninsula Family Service in San Francisco, emphasized the adverse impact of internet addiction on an individual’s life, leading to significant distress or impairment.
Considering that the adolescent brain differs from that of adults, understanding the effects of Internet addiction on adolescents’ brains is crucial. Participants diagnosed with Internet addiction in the study displayed notable brain region dysfunctions related to attention, planning, and impulse control tasks compared to their peers. This suggests that such behavioral challenges can complicate adolescence, influencing their development and well-being.