<P> People who are socially anxious are more likely to use electronic communication as their only means of communication . This, in turn, makes them more likely to disclose personal information to strangers online that they normally wouldn't give out face - to - face . The phenomenon is a likely cause for the prevalence of cyberbullying, especially for children who do not understand "social networking etiquette ." </P> <P> Internet anonymity can lead to online disinhibition, in which people do and say things online that they normally wouldn't do or say in person . Psychology researcher John Suler differentiates between benign disinhibition in which people can grow psychologically by revealing secret emotions, fears, and wishes and showing unusual acts of kindness and generosity and toxic disinhibition, in which people use rude language, harsh criticisms, anger, hatred and threats or visit pornographic or violent sites that they wouldn't in the' real world .' </P> <P> People become addicted or dependent on the Internet through excessive computer use that interferes with daily life . Kimberly S. Young links internet addiction disorder with existing mental health issues, most commonly depression . Young states that the disorder has significant effects socially, psychologically and occupationally . </P> <P> "Aric Sigman's presentation to members of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health outlined the parallels between screen dependency and alcohol and drug addiction: the instant stimulation provided by all those flickering graphics leads to the release of dopamine, a chemical that's central to the brain's reward system". </P>

2) what are some harmful outcomes that stem from internet anonymity