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KEY LEARNING

• Sometimes, we realise our fault, but are unable to change: A lot of teenagers may already know
that they are spending much more time on the Internet than they should. However, it is difficult

for them to understand how to deal with it adequately. In this case, parents and teachers can step in.

• Open forums for discussing this issue should be present: If there is a safe way for teens to
talk about uncomfortable subjects like the lure of the Internet and de-addiction, a lot of them
might be saved from this evil.

• Curbing addiction at initial stages is much better than de-addiction: It is much easier to
prevent the problem of addiction than to cure it once it has set in. For this, teachers and parents
need to collaborate for the guidance and help of students.

MY SPACE...

What activities do you engage in when you are not using your phone? Do you enjoy these activities

more or less than the Internet? Why?
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Have you felt neglected and ignored by your parents or friends because they were too lost in their
smartphone? What did you do about it? How did they react?

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A FEW TOOLS & TECHNIQUES

Like Karan, the following steps can be undertaken to cope with Internet addiction:

1. Set a specific time aside for net use. Using the phone randomly at all hours tends to distract you
from your regular routine.

2. Turn off notifications from applications unless you need them for studies, as they act as constant
reminders to go back on the Internet.

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