The article discusses whether internet and computer use can be considered addictive, based on five case studies. The author argues that only two of the five cases meet the criteria for addiction, as defined by core components such as salience, mood modification, tolerance, withdrawal, conflict, and relapse. The majority of cases show excessive usage as a symptom of underlying issues, such as social isolation, low self-confidence, or mental health problems. Gary, a 15-year-old British boy, spends long hours on his computer, using it as an "electronic friend" to cope with social and emotional difficulties. Jamie, a 16-year-old British male, spends 70 hours a week online, using the internet for socializing and entertainment, though he denies being an addict. Panos, a 20-year-old Greek student, uses the internet extensively for escapism and socializing, though he does not deny his problem. Jodie, a 35-year-old Canadian woman, uses the internet for socializing and relationships, though she does not see it as an addiction. Dave, a 32-year-old British man, became addicted to the internet, using it to escape from real-life problems and to maintain a virtual relationship. The article suggests that while some individuals may exhibit addictive behaviors, the majority of excessive computer use is symptomatic of other underlying issues. It also notes that the internet can provide a way for people to socialize and connect, even if it is not always healthy. The author concludes that further research is needed to understand the nature of internet addiction and its effects on individuals and society.The article discusses whether internet and computer use can be considered addictive, based on five case studies. The author argues that only two of the five cases meet the criteria for addiction, as defined by core components such as salience, mood modification, tolerance, withdrawal, conflict, and relapse. The majority of cases show excessive usage as a symptom of underlying issues, such as social isolation, low self-confidence, or mental health problems. Gary, a 15-year-old British boy, spends long hours on his computer, using it as an "electronic friend" to cope with social and emotional difficulties. Jamie, a 16-year-old British male, spends 70 hours a week online, using the internet for socializing and entertainment, though he denies being an addict. Panos, a 20-year-old Greek student, uses the internet extensively for escapism and socializing, though he does not deny his problem. Jodie, a 35-year-old Canadian woman, uses the internet for socializing and relationships, though she does not see it as an addiction. Dave, a 32-year-old British man, became addicted to the internet, using it to escape from real-life problems and to maintain a virtual relationship. The article suggests that while some individuals may exhibit addictive behaviors, the majority of excessive computer use is symptomatic of other underlying issues. It also notes that the internet can provide a way for people to socialize and connect, even if it is not always healthy. The author concludes that further research is needed to understand the nature of internet addiction and its effects on individuals and society.