Ask HN: When might 'internet addiction' become a diagnosable medical condition?

The DSM-VI presumably won't be out for ~10 years. Though I was reading a book that noted: To simplify, the DSM-IV definition of drug abuse refers to continued use in the face of adverse consequences. Dependence is defined as such current use meeting three or more of the following conditions: 1. Tolerance (needing more to get same effect) 2. Withdrawal (a characteristic set of symptoms caused by cessation) 3. Using more than intended 4. A persistent desire or unsuccessful attempts to cut down on use 5. Spending considerable time obtaining, using, or recovering from the effects of the substance 6. Interference with important work, social, or other activities 7. Continued use despite knowledge of adverse consequences Most internet users I know would probably pass #3, #4, #5, #6 and #7, and therefore be well into 'dependence' territory.