Brain's neural circuitry

1   Changing

1. Neuroscientists have evidence that the brain's neural circuitry is changing in response to how we use the internet.
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3. Yes, neuroscientists have substantial evidence that the brain's neural circuitry is changing in response to internet use, a phenomenon often described as digital neuroplasticity 🧠. 
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5. These changes are observed in both the structure and function of the brain, leading to both potential benefits and concerns.

2   Structural Changes (Anatomy)

Studies, particularly those involving Internet Addiction (IA), have identified measurable alterations in brain matter:

1. Decreased Gray and White Matter Volume: A reduction in gray matter volume (GMV) and white matter volume (WMV) has been reported in adolescents with digital addiction. These reductions are often seen in areas critical for:
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3. Executive Function: Including the Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex (DLPFC) and Orbitofrontal Cortex (OFC), which are vital for decision-making, impulse control, and planning.
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5. Reward Processing: Changes have been noted in structures within the basal ganglia circuitry, linked to the brain's reward system.
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7. Sensorimotor Activities: Regions like the Supplementary Motor Area (SMA) and the pre/postcentral gyrus, potentially related to repetitive actions like clicking or scrolling.
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9. Reduced Cortical Thickness: Decreased cortical thickness has been observed in areas like the Orbitofrontal Cortex (OFC), which can be associated with higher impulsivity.

3   Functional Changes (Activity and Connectivity)

The way brain networks communicate is also being altered by high-intensity or addictive internet use:

1. Disrupted Neural Networks: Internet addiction is associated with disrupted signaling (functional connectivity) in critical neural networks, including:
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3. Executive Control Network: This network is responsible for attention, planning, and decision-making. Disruptions here can impair cognitive control and increase impulsivity.
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5. Reward System: Excessive use, particularly social media or gaming, triggers the release of dopamine via a reward loop (like for notifications or "likes"). This can "rewire" the brain's reward system, making it seek immediate, short-term digital rewards and potentially mirroring pathways seen in substance addiction.
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7. Default Mode Network (DMN): This network is active during mind-wandering or self-introspection, and its functional connectivity is sometimes reported to be disrupted during focused tasks.

4   Altered Attention and Memory: 

1. The constant stream of notifications, pop-ups, and rapid content switching trains the brain for divided attention and rapid focus shifts (multitasking), which may come at the expense of sustained concentration (deep focus) and long-term memory consolidation. 
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3. Some research suggests a reliance on the internet for information can lead to "cognitive offloading," where the brain relies on external sources rather than its own memory.

5   Dual Nature of Neuroplasticity

It is important to note that neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life—is a two-sided coin:

1  Aspect Potential Negative Impact & Potential Positive Impact

2  Cognition

1. Reduced attention span, weaker sustained focus, reliance on "cognitive offloading" (external memory).
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3. Enhanced multitasking skills, improved visual-spatial skills (e.g., from video games), and faster information processing.

3  Brain Structure

1. Reduced gray and white matter volume in areas of cognitive control and emotion regulation (with addiction).
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3. Increased neural activity in areas related to problem-solving and decision-making for experienced users engaging in complex online tasks (e.g., searching).

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