The Internet had provided us with a worldwide span of knowledge across a multi-platform database. This has graced us with the ability to access an incredibly large amount of information, in addition to being able to connect with people around the world. Although it has provided us with these benefits, we also succumb to some of its disadvantages. One in particular that many people fall victim is the addiction to cyber relationships; the dependency on communicating with others through the use of the Internet. Outlined thus forward are the causes and effects of being addicted to cyber relationships.
One leading cause to the formation of an addiction to cyber relationships is the potential conflict in one's own ability to communicate with others face to face. As mentioned in the Journal of Abnormal Psychology, "Many people struggle with this type of social anxiety and find it difficult to seek out and create relationships offline". Without the security of the Internet and its sense of anonymity, people often feel overwhelmed by the fear of judgment. With the use of an online platform, one is given confidence through the lack of intimidation due to the receiver not standing directly in front of them and not being able to immediately read their expression and reaction. A second cause that leads to the addiction to cyber relationships is not necessarily fear of confrontation, but rather lack of confidence in one's physical appearance or self-worth. With the ability to create your own profile on dating websites, or Facebook accounts, you are given the chance to embellish your lifestyle, appearance and personality. This includes uploading edited or cropped pictures, and lying about certain personal information such as: height, weight/physical build and employment. The development of an alternative personality is a huge factor as to why individuals get trapped in online relationship building. They begin to feel a sense of acceptance and attention from their online profile, which causes them to build attachment to this type of interaction.
As just previously mentioned, a huge cause to being addicted to cyber relationships is the creation of an alter ego, a second identity. The effect of this creates a world win of issues with your interaction in society, as well as your personal lifestyle. If positive responses are given to your online persona, one might decide that they should dedicate more time trying to build relationships online rather than offline. This leads to isolation and avoidance of any face-to-face interaction and relationship building and serious addiction can affect your health, job and current relationships with family and friends.
Citations:
Heerey, E.A., & Kring, A.M. (2007). Interpersonal consequences of social anxiety. Journal of Abnormal Psychology, 116: 125-134.
Wolak, J., Mitchell, K. J., & Finkelhor, D. (2003). Escaping or Connecting? Characteristics of Youth Who Form Close Online Relationships. Journal of Adolescence, 26(1), 105-119.
Carson-DeWitt, R., MD, & Jasmer, R., MD. (n.d.). What Is Internet Addiction? Retrieved February 21, 2016, from http://www.everydayhealth.com/internet-addiction/
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