Internet addiction disorder affecting toddlers | 60 Minutes Australia

Summary

The script addresses the growing concern of Internet addiction disorder among children, as technology becomes increasingly integrated into their lives. It highlights the impact of excessive screen time on young minds, causing behavioral issues and addiction symptoms similar to those of alcohol or drug abuse. The script features expert opinions, personal accounts of addiction, and the effectiveness of digital detox programs. It concludes with suggestions for parents to manage children's screen time to prevent addiction.

Takeaways

• 📱 Technology is commonly used to entertain and placate children, but excessive use can lead to Internet Addiction Disorder (IAD).
• 🚫 Children can exhibit extreme reactions when devices are taken away, which are symptoms of potential IAD.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Parents sometimes use devices to give themselves peace, but this can inadvertently lead to children becoming addicted.
• 🧠 Early studies show that Internet addiction can affect the brain similarly to alcohol, drugs, and gambling, impacting areas responsible for decision-making, emotions, and self-control.
• 🎮 Popular games like Minecraft can be particularly addictive for children, leading to behavioral changes and a lack of interest in other activities.
• 🌐 Internet addiction can lead to severe consequences, such as neglecting family and daily responsibilities.
• 👩‍⚕️ Dr. Kimberly Young, a pioneer in the field, suggests that the rise in mobile technology and the introduction of devices like the iPad have contributed to the increase in IAD.
• 🏥 There are residential treatment facilities, like the one featured in Seattle, that offer digital detox programs for those suffering from severe Internet addiction.
• 👶 The age group affected by Internet addiction is expanding to include young children and toddlers.
• 🔒 Parental control apps can help manage children's screen time and game access, leading to improved behavior and a healthier relationship with technology.
• 🌱 The key to preventing IAD in children is to control and supervise their technology use from a young age, gradually increasing autonomy as they grow older.

Q & A

What is Internet addiction disorder?

Internet addiction disorder is a condition where individuals become excessively dependent on the internet, particularly for activities such as online gaming, leading to negative impacts on their daily lives and mental health.

Why are mental health experts worried about children's internet usage?

Mental health experts are worried because excessive internet usage, especially at a young age, can lead to symptoms similar to addiction, affecting children's behavior, social skills, and academic performance.

How does screen addiction affect the brain?

Screen addiction affects the brain by distorting the same areas responsible for decision-making, emotions, and self-control, similar to the effects of alcohol, drugs, and gambling.

What changes did Bianca notice in her children's behavior due to internet addiction?

Bianca noticed that her children became hooked on their screens and the game Minecraft, leading to them being late for school, not doing homework, and becoming aggressive and throwing tantrums.

What was the impact of internet addiction on Tam Neil's life?

Tam Neil's internet addiction led to her spending 16 hours a day gaming, neglecting her family, and choosing gaming over her son, which resulted in the collapse of her daily life and relationships.

What is the Restart program and how does it help with internet addiction?

The Restart program is a residential treatment facility for internet addiction that offers a 45-day digital detox in a technology-free environment, helping individuals to unhook from their addiction and rebuild their lives.

Why are young children becoming addicted to technology?

Young children are becoming addicted to technology due to the easy accessibility of devices like smartphones and tablets, and the engaging nature of games and online content.

What measures can parents take to control their children's internet usage?

Parents can use parent-controlled apps to restrict the type of games and the amount of time children spend online, as well as encouraging other activities and exercises to balance screen time.

What advice does Dr. Kimberly Young give for managing children's technology use?

Dr. Kimberly Young suggests that children under three should have no technology use, those aged three to six should have supervised technology use for about an hour, and older children should have limited, controlled use to prevent addiction.

How has Bianca Peverill managed to regain control over her children's technology use?

Bianca Peverill has taken control of home computers and gaming devices using a parent-controlled app that restricts the games her children can play and the time they can play for.

What is the significance of the 9now app mentioned in the script?

The 9now app is a platform where viewers can access full episodes and exclusive content from the show '60 Minutes Australia,' as mentioned by Liam Bartlett at the end of the transcript.