Research indicates that young people who are addicted to the internet may undergo changes in their brain chemistry, potentially fueling further addictive behaviors.
A study, featured in PLOS Mental Health, analyzed past research using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to explore how different parts of the brain work together in individuals grappling with internet addiction.
The findings revealed noticeable effects across various neural networks in the brains of young individuals. Additionally, heightened brain activity was observed in certain areas when participants were at rest.
Simultaneously, there was a general decline in the functional connectivity within regions of the brain linked to critical thinking. These regions form the executive control network, which plays a key role in memory and decision-making processes.
Associated with mental health and cognitive development
The study found that these alterations in brain function contributed to addictive behaviors and inclinations among adolescents. These changes also correlated with shifts in behavior associated with mental health, cognitive development, intellectual capacity, and physical coordination.
The researchers examined twelve earlier studies involving 237 individuals aged ten to nineteen who had been formally diagnosed with internet addiction between 2013 and 2023.
Based on a survey conducted this year, nearly half of British teenagers admitted to feeling addicted to social media.
Internet Addiction Disrupts Adolescent Brain Networks
A new study reviewed neuroimaging research on internet addiction in adolescents, finding that it disrupts brain networks involved in attention, memory, coordination, and emotional processing.
These disruptions can… pic.twitter.com/DcT8IhdS3p
— Neuroscience News (@NeuroscienceNew) June 4, 2024
Max Chang, the study’s lead author and an MSc student at the UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health (GOS ICH), highlighted the importance of adolescence as a key period of development. He explained that during this stage, individuals experience major changes in their biology, thinking, and personalities.
Chang stated, “The brain is particularly vulnerable to internet addiction-related urges during this time, such as compulsive internet usage, cravings towards usage of the mouse or keyboard, and consuming media.”
He further noted that the study’s findings indicate these urges can lead to negative behavioral and developmental changes. For instance, adolescents may have difficulty maintaining relationships, participating in social activities, and being honest about their online habits. They may also face irregular eating and sleep patterns.
Effective treatment of early signs of internet addiction
Chang expressed his hope that the study’s findings shed light on how internet addiction changes the link between brain networks in adolescence. This understanding, he suggested, could facilitate the effective treatment of early signs of internet addiction.
He further elaborated, stating, “Clinicians could potentially prescribe treatment to aim at certain brain regions or suggest psychotherapy or family therapy targeting key symptoms of internet addiction.”
Chang emphasized the importance of parental education as a potential prevention strategy from a public health perspective. He noted, “Parents who are aware of the early signs and onset of internet addiction will more effectively handle screen time, impulsivity, and minimize the risk factors surrounding internet addiction.”
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