In 2008 China declared internet addiction to be a clinical disorder. Since then there are approximately 250 “internet boot camps” in China. Involuntary incarceration, behavioral modification and military style discipline are the many techniques being used to fight internet addiction. Spreading to South Korea as well as the United States these boot camps have been popping up at an alarming rate.
In 2007 the New York Times reported the conditions of these camps and had this to say: “Patients, overwhelmingly male and aged 14 to 19, wake up in dormitories at 6:15 a.m. to do morning calisthenics and march on the cracked concrete grounds wearing khaki fatigues. Drill sergeants bark orders at them when they are not attending group and individual counseling sessions. Therapy includes patients simulating war games with laser guns.” Fear of failure as well as intimidation are the many techniques used in these camps. In 2009 Seattle became home to the United States first internet boot camp. These camps obviously do more harm then good. Parents with high expectations have reported that the children’s “internet addiction” became worse after the camp. What do you think about internet boot camps? Drop your opinions in the comment box below!
