SCHOOL POLICY MANUAL-2024-2025

Internet addic�on, which is also called problema�c internet use or internet dependency, is a behavioral condi�on marked by excessive, compulsive, or out -of-control use of the internet that causes problems in many areas of a person’s life. Internet addic�on is characterized by an uncontrollable desire to be online, to the point where internet ac�vi�es dominate and undermine daily rou�nes, social connec�ons, professional or academic performance, and even physical health. While �me spent online can be immensely produc�ve, when it becomes a compulsion it can damage grades, a scholas�c career, work, and rela�onships. When a student feels more comfortable with online pals than off -line friends or can’t stop playing games, gambling, or compulsively checking smart devices, that student may have a cyber addic�on. Problema�c smartphone or internet use has been linked to lower life sa�sfac�on and mental health symptoms such as depression, low self-esteem, anxiety, lack of sleep and obsessive-compulsive behaviour, with children and young people the most vulnerable. Signs and symptoms of cyber addic�on vary from person to person. Here are some general warning signs: • Losing track of �me online. Frequently the student loses track of �me and stays online longer than intended. Do a few minutes turn into a few hours? Does the student get annoyed if his or her �me online is interrupted? • Having trouble comple�ng tasks at work or home. Is the student falling behind on homework and studying? Perhaps the student o�en studies late because he or she cannot complete work on �me due to unhealthy online habits. • Isola�on from family and friends. Is the student’s social life suffering because of excessive �me spent online? Is the student neglec�ng family and/or friends? Does the student feel like no one in “real life”—even a girlfriend/boyfriend—understands him/her like his/her online friends? • Feeling guilty or defensive about Internet use. Is the student sick of friends, a partner, and/or family nagging him/her to get off the computer or put away the smartphone? Does the student hide Internet use or lie about the amount of �me he/she spends on the computer or a smart device? • Feeling a sense of euphoria while involved in Internet ac�vi�es. Does the student use the Internet as an outlet when stressed or sad, or for gra�fica�on or excitement? Internet or computer addic�on can also cause physical discomfort, such as the following: • carpal tunnel syndrome (pain and numbness in hands and wrists); • dry eyes or strained vision. • backaches, neck aches, or severe headaches. • sleep disturbances; and • pronounced weight gain or weight loss. Social media is one of the main channels via which internet addic�on may spread. Users can publish updates, photographs, and videos, as well as like, comment, and direct message others on social media networks. Parents should also lead by example, modeling healthy internet behavior themselves. Parents can help manage internet addic�on in teens by ini�a�ng honest conversa�ons about internet use, establishing reasonable and clear boundaries, encouraging alterna�ve ac�vi�es, monitoring online

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Al Diyafah High School-Reviewed policies- November 2024

AT&L24-2025