I have found the internet a great sorce for research. I must admit I spend hours on it too. When I was taking classes in college, I would use it to expand on the information I was learning. When my mother was dx'ed with cancer, I did weeks & weeks of research so that I could be informed on all aspects of it even if she didn't want to know anything about it. After her surgery, I found people who helped me understand & find places for help (even though it was too late). I also use it to find out more about some health conditions for myself. I also use it to learn more about my dressage riding techniques...even if it isn't riding, the techniques are in my head to try when I am on my horse. I must also admit that I do shopping over the internet....horse equiptment, cloths, etc. Sometimes it is just window shopping when I get boared. I also do journaling not on the internet but keeping my own documents.

The internet is very useful & is so full of knowledge. There is something on almost any subject you could imagine. It is not healthy to spend most of your day on the internet. I have found at times I needed the knowledge so badly that I would get caught up in it, but limiting your time to maybe an hour of social internet in the morning or after school would probably be the best thing for you. If you are using it for research....then spend the needed time to do your research but don't get sidetracked with the social.

Like KD said, only you can control your usage unless you have your parents take over the control.

Debbie