Roberts - Cyber junkie: escape the gaming and internet trap

I am blessed with many friends who supported me in writing this book.

• Tom and Ann Houston, for tireless efforts in editing and challenging me to become a better writer
• Nathalie Shamma, for her eagle-eye editorial skills
• John Everingham, for editing some chapters and convincing me that I could do it; also, for being a powerful mentor these last ten years
• my family, for blessing me on my journey and always encouraging me
• Tony Vicich, for inspiring me to reach for my dreams
• Tim Kowalski, for believing in me when I needed it most
• David Wolfe, for convincing me that I was a writer
• high school English teachers Bill Petrovich and George Duffourc, for inspiring me to push past my literary limits
• Fr. Ned Donoher, for igniting and empowering my creative mind
• Tim Batdorf, for leading the way with his own book
• Terry Shulman, for offering valuable advice when I started the book
• Sari Solden and Geri Markel, for supporting this process early on
• Doug Rutley, for catching me in the act of a gaming binge and scheming thereafter to get me to acknowledge my problem
• P. K., for kicking my butt to be productive and helping me structure both the book and my time
• A.S., for awakening dormant parts of my self
• Barb Evangelista, for being a steadfast friend who always offers me honest feedback
• Maureen and Elektra Petrucci, for being loyal friends, creative consultants, and fellow cultural creatives
• Ryan Isakow, for offering me a teenage perspective on gaming and constantly encouraging me in this endeavor
• Andy Carter, for helping me to appreciate the inner workings of World of Warcraft
• Andrew Luginbill, for showing me the lighter side of gaming and sharing many insights on his own gaming
• Lambrini Makris, Christos, and the folks at Montys Grill, for providing me with inspiration, support, and a place to write these many years
• all the folks I have worked with professionally, for trusting me with their stories
• and finally, thank you to all the following people, for helping me navigate through the depths of my issues: Ralph Johnson, Walter Clemens, Mike Dokuchic, Paul Soczynski, Bill Kauth, Charlie Emir-Gandalf-Carlo-Brother Lawrence Lewis, Barb Evangelista, Wayne Hicks, Palmer Stevens, and John Everingham

The Western world is in the midst of a cultural shift. Electronics and the Internet have transformed the way we live. Just a decade or so ago, devices such as computers, cell phones, and iPods were relative luxuries that made our lives easier or entertained us. For most people, these items are now nearly indispensable in both their work and their personal lives. The Internet and video gaming, likewise, are no longer used primarily for research or for occasional amusements. More and more, they are our main source of recreation.

For many people, video and computer games and other forms of digital technology are harmless. They offer convenience or a way to relax or have fun with friends and family members. Unfortunately, all of these devices also carry the potential to become addictive.