Internet Addiction from an Economic Perspective - Essay Example

The data collected provided the necessary information to analyze different sections and combine the data in different ways to determine if any of the participants are likely to show symptoms of Internet addiction. The results of the study are outlined and figures and tables are included to offer more insight into the way the study was conducted. From the introduction of computers to the continued advancements in technology, the use of the Internet and social networking sites have continued to grow.

The technology age went through several changes throughout the past half a century. The technology innovation phase began in 1964 until 1974. By 1975 computers were being introduced into the educational arena as the institutional phase took over from 1975 through 1995. This was the introduction of computers to school age students and those who were interested got in on the ground floor. By 1996 the commercialization phase had pushed through the country and is continuing today stronger than ever (Laudon & Traver, 2012).

With such an emphasis being placed on the use of the Internet and many businesses and organizations incorporating technology into the daily routine, to keep up with the business market that has now gone global, it’s no wonder the Internet has become an addictive tool. This paper will look at the background of the problem of Internet use and the possibility of the addiction that is portrayed by some users as they forgo regular normal daily routine to remain connected to the Internet for social purposes, gaming experiences, and surfing and shopping the Internet.

The problem and purpose will be itemized and outlined for clarity. The sample group will be discussed and the criteria for choosing the participants, how many will be included in the study, reasons for exclusion, and other demographics necessary to fully outline the research sample group. The research significance for why the study is being done, along with the nature of the study that provides details of the study that help form the parameters for the collection of data. A review of the literature and narrowed topics selectively included in this section will provide a past, present, and future of the pending problem of Internet addiction.

The research method of using qualitative and quantitative styles to collect pertinent information will be included, as well as the actual research questions, interview questions, survey questions, and observational data. Data collection will be itemized and categorized in this paper to allow easy access and clarity of the subject and analyzed outcomes. Internal and external validity will be explained and the results of the study provided. By covering all of the sections within this paper, the reader will be able to follow the progress of the study.

Background of Problem Addiction has been defined in the past as a substance that alters a person’s reactions to normal daily routine or thought process (Tomer, 2001). At first, the state of addiction was centered on the use of illegal drugs. The scope was then