Technology today advances at an exponential rate and new devices are released almost daily. With every new invention comes new and exciting possibilities as well as ever-increasing temptations and dangers. One of the traps that many fall victim to is that of computer dependence. Computer addiction can be defined as the obsessive use of computers that interferes with daily life. This addiction has manifested itself through many computer activities such as video games, chat rooms, and internet browsing, to name a few. In order to truly understand what computer addiction is, one must understand the symptoms and motivations that lead to becoming addicted. Computer addictions have been found across all races, genders, and socioeconomic classes in America, and yet many still view it as purely addictive. 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 because there are always many causes behind these addictions. Some psychologists believe that the root of this problem lies in our increased dependence on computers. The majority of people use computers in their professional lives and throughout their studies. This dependence, coupled with increased time constraints, can lead individuals to spend longer periods of time on the computer. A recent study was conducted by Robert Kraut of Carnegie Mellon University in which one hundred and sixty-nine people from ninety-three different households in the Pittsburgh area were monitored during their first two years of using d 'Internet. Using monitoring software and surveys, Dr. Kraut was able to establish a direct correlation between amounts of Internet use and a...... middle of paper ...... Alcoholics Anonymous. Regardless of the treatment sought, professional help is necessary for addicts to overcome their addiction to computer time. As technology advances, more and more people are attracted to computers for their profession and education. If caution and restraint are not maintained, some will become addicted, which will have a significant 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. April 25, 2009. .Spatih, Judith. “Sony Online Entertainment: EverQuestor EverCrack? » Journal of Business Ethics 58 (nd): 3–6. Williams, Ian. Vnunet. March 1, 2007. April 25 2009. .