Career Advice - Internet Addiction

Is Internet Abuse Akin to Alcohol Abuse?

Advice Seeker: Dear April,

Recently an IBM employee was fired for visiting a porn site during work hours, though the worker claims that he suffers from Internet addiction. He says that Internet abuse is an uncontrollable disease, much like alcoholism or sex addiction, and should be protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Do you think he has a successful case?

Sincerely,

Techno Tammy

April Masini's advice:

Dear Techno Tammy,

Anyone who is hoping to sue an employer for encouraging or promoting technology addiction can take these words of wisdom from me: Lots of luck! It's not gonna happen.

Addiction is a very complicated disorder and pinning liability on employers who "encourage" workers to stay connected is nearly impossible! Here's why:

1. People who stay connected 24/7 rarely stay connected for work. They surf the net and visit various sites -- often social sites in addition to any work sites.

2. Employers who "encourage" workers to stay connected are no more liable than teachers who "encourage" students to do their homework. Encouragement is not enslavement, imprisonment or harassment.

3. If an employer does become addicted, chances are that person has a predisposition to addiction, and if they are not addicted to technology at work, they will be or are addicted to other things like alcohol, shopping, sex, drugs, food, etc. The more addictive behavior and addictions they have, the less likely an employer will be liable for their addiction to technology.