INTERNET ADDICTION OF MODERN TEENAGERS AS A BEHAVIORAL PROBLEM

In the life of a modern man, the role of gadgets that, on the one hand, have a number of advantages, and, on the other hand, they fraught with a certain danger, especially for the growing generation, is increasing. The paper considers the Internet addiction phenomenon, which has become widespread in the modern world, and the associated behavioral problems, including the problems among the teenagers. The authors give the analysis of scientific research on this issue, carried out both abroad and in Russia. The goal is to consider the phenomenon of Internet addiction and the behavioral problems caused by it among modern teenagers.

The authors note the existence of various approaches to the understanding of Internet addiction (“Internet-mania”). Based on the analysis of the existing definitions of the term “Internet addiction” and the highlighting its essential characteristics, the author’s definition of Internet addiction is proposed. The paper contains the number of signs manifested in the behavior and consciousness of Internet-dependent people, including the physiological symptoms; the objects of dependence, specified by various researchers are listed. The authors consider the causes of the emergence of children and teens’ Internet addiction, among them there are: lack of communication and warm emotional relations in the family, lack of parents’ control, child’s inability to establish contacts with others, friendlessness. The authors highlight the necessity to develop and use the preventive programs aimed at the prevention of Internet-dependent behavior among the teenagers. At the same time, the attention is drawn to the feasibility of implementing these programs using the modern active techniques of conducting classes, providing the complex of modern interactive preventive (web quest, performance, case studies along with the traditionally used trainings, games, etc.), educational and upbringing events.