Do you use the Internet too much? Do you feel withdrawal symptoms when you are away from the Internet? Are you curious as to how many people are “addicted” to the Internet? As reported by CBS News, a new study finds that around 1 in 8 people (12.5%) of people may have an Internet problem. Here are some questions asked of respondents and their answers from the study:

• Do you feel your personal relationships have suffered as a result of excessive Internet use? (6 percent said “yes")
• Do you conceal nonessential Internet use? (9 percent “yes")
• Do you feel preoccupied by the Internet when you’re offline? (4 percent “yes")
• Do you find it difficult to stay away from the Internet for several days at a time? (14 percent “yes")
• Do you go online to escape problems or relieve a negative mood? (8 percent “yes")
• Have you tried to cut back on your Internet use? (12 percent “yes")
• If so, did you succeed? (94 percent “yes")
• How often do you stay online longer than you intended? (12 percent said “very often” or “often")

You can make your own judgments about whether 1 in 8 constitutes a “social problem” of Internet addiction. I suppose that ultimately, the Internet is just like any other activity -- if used in moderation it can be enjoyable, productive, and beneficial. But whether it’s gambling, drinking, or even yoga, shopping, or eating, if it becomes excessive, there is certainly the possibility that the Internet can become a problematic addiction.

Technology can change from year to year, but addiction problems seem to be always constant.