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Internet addiction

a behavioral pattern characterized by excessive or obsessive online and offline computer use that leads to distress and impairment. The condition, though controversial, has attracted increasing attention in the popular media and among health care professionals. Expanding research has identified various subtypes, including those involving excessive gaming, sexual preoccupations, and e-mail and text messaging.

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Psychology term of the day

May 9th 2024

perceptual distortion

perceptual distortion

skewed perceptual experience. Examples include the distorted images produced by dreams or hallucinogenic drugs, geometric illusions (e.g., the Müller-Lyer illusion), visions occurring in states of sensory deprivation or dehydration, and distortions produced by modifying auditory stimuli. Perceptual distortion may also occur as a consequence of acquired brain injury. See also metamorphopsia.