All the following (1–5) must be present:

1. Is preoccupied with the Internet (think about previous online activity or anticipate next online session).
2. Needs to use the Internet with increased amounts of time in order to achieve satisfaction.
3. Has made unsuccessful efforts to control, cut back, or stop Internet use.
4. Is restless, moody, depressed, or irritable when attempting to cut down or stop Internet use.
5. Has stayed online longer than originally intended.

At least one of the following:

1. Has jeopardized or risked the loss of a significant relationship, job, educational or career opportunity because of the Internet.
2. Has lied to family members, therapist, or others to conceal the extent of involvement with the Internet.
3. Uses the Internet as a way of escaping from problems or of relieving a dysphoric mood (e.g., feelings of helplessness, guilt, anxiety, depression).

From “Modification in the Proposed Diagnostic Criteria for Internet Addiction,”
Jun 2001, Vol. 4, No. 3: 377-383 by Keith W. Beard, PsyD and Eve M. Wolf, PhD.

Dr. John Grohol is the founder & CEO of Psych Central. He is an author, researcher and expert in mental health online, and has been writing about online behavior, mental health and psychology issues -- as well as the intersection of technology and human behavior -- since 1992. Dr. Grohol sits on the editorial board of the journal Cyberpsychology, Behavior and Social Networking and is a founding board member and treasurer of the Society for Participatory Medicine.

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    Last reviewed: By John M. Grohol, Psy.D. on 21 Aug 2005
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