Technology today is progressing at an exponential rate with new devices being released practically every day. With every new invention comes new and exciting possibilities, as well as ever-increasing temptations and dangers. One such trap that many have fallen victim to is that of computer addiction. Computer addiction can be defined as obsessive computer use that interferes with daily life. This addiction has been demonstrated through many activities on computers such as video games, chat rooms, and web surfing, just to name a few. To truly understand what computer addiction is, it is necessary to understand the symptoms and reasons that lead to becoming addicted to it. Computer addictions have been found in every race, gender, and socioeconomic class in America, yet many still see it as pure addiction. laziness. Although it is still widely disputed, many psychologists recognize it as a valid mental disorder. As with many addictions, the origins of computer addiction cannot be precisely identified as there are always many causes of such addiction. Some psychologists hypothesize that the origins lie in our growing dependence on computers. Most people are required to use computers in their professional lives and during their education. This addiction, combined with increased time constraints, can lead people to spend longer periods of time on the computer. A recent study was conducted by Robert Kraut at Carnegie Mellon University in which one hundred and sixty-nine individuals from ninety-three different households in the Pittsburgh area were monitored during their first two years of Internet use. Using tracking software and surveys, Dr. Kraut was able to establish a direct correlation between the amount of Internet usage and a... medium of paper... Alcoholics Anonymous. Regardless of the treatment required, professional help is needed for addicts to overcome their addiction to computer time. With the advancement of technology, more and more people are attracted to computers for their profession and education. If caution and moderation are not maintained, some will become addicted and this will have a huge impact on their personal and professional lives. Many have fallen prey to computer addiction and some have paid with their lives. Works Cited James Fearing, Ph.D. Computer/Internet Addiction: Self-Diagnosis. and April 25, 2009. .Spaith, Judith. “Sony Online Entertainment: Ever Questor EverCrack?” Journal of Business Ethics 58 (n.d.): 3–6.Williams, Ian. Vnunet. 01 March 2007. 25 April 2009. .