Recognizing Computer Addiction

Much of our understanding of computer addiction comes from decades of research on other addictions, like alcoholism or gambling addiction. Psychologists have identified several danger signs for computer addiction. Any of these signs would be a red flag, and multiple signs could mean there's a real problem.

Staying on the computer for much longer than intended, or not noticing the passage of time while using the computer
Making conscious efforts to cut back on computer time and repeatedly failing
Thinking frequently about the computer when not using it or constantly looking forward to the next opportunity to use it
Hiding the extent of computer use from family and friends
Using the computer as an escape when feeling depressed or stressed
Missing events or opportunities or failing at non-computer-related tasks because of time spent on the computer. This could include poor job performance or missing out on family activities [source: Young].
Continued excessive computer use despite incurring negative consequences, such as marital problems or getting in trouble at work due to computer use [source: Henderson]

Computer Addiction and Child Neglect

One of the most notorious examples of a computer addiction surfaced in Nevada in 2007. Michael and Iana Straw had two young children who were neglected to the point of malnourishment and serious health problems because the couple was so obsessed with playing online games. They were each charged with multiple counts of child abuse [source: Fox News]. A similar case occurred in South Korea in 2005, when two parents left a 4-month-old infant alone to play computer games at an Internet café. The baby died [source: Eurogamer].