Video Game Addiction-Could it be a Problem with my Teen?
Upon hearing the word addiction, most people would assume this refers to drug and alcohol use. In many instances, this would be an accurate assessment but it is not a 100% accurate assessment. Addictive behavior can extend far beyond substance abuse and can entail other compulsively addictive behavior. Many people are, in fact, addicted to sex, gambling, and even shopping. In recent years, a new addiction, especially among computer savvy teenagers, has emerged: online gaming addiction.
Online gaming addiction is not something to sneer at especially when it comes to your teen. Nor is it wise to assume that those heavily involved in online gaming at the exclusion of all else are only going through a phase. Online gaming addiction can prove devastating to a person’s life if it is not effectively treated. Like any other addiction, professional treatment should be sought to diagnose and treat a possible online gaming addiction.
The appeal of online gaming is easy to understand; it’s fun. The realm of online video games, role-playing, or interactive worlds has a unique appeal because they become real to the player. People can become a new persona and make that persona the fantasy image they have always wanted for themselves. Their created person can become a better person to be than the real deal. You can live your fantasy life.
The allure of the ability to live out one’s fantasies has allowed online gaming to become wildly popular on a worldwide basis. In the United States alone, millions of people invest a great deal of time with these games.
It is thought that game play stimulate the reward centers of the brain. These reward centers are where the brain releases the sensation of pleasure. Playing an online game can trigger similar sensation as taking a drug or drink. Just like a drug addict, over time gaming addicts needs more game time for the same amount of stimulation that was initially provided with shorter time. They seemingly go through withdrawal when denied the ability to play.
Gaming addition signs are very similar to signs of drug addiction. For example, when the online gaming addict is not able to take part in virtual activities, they become very irritable. They can also become less interested in involvement in other activities including eating. Often, the addict will not want to take any time away from gaming and will frequently eat meals in front of the computer. Other common symptoms of this condition can include: – Won’t keep track of the time spent playing online – Being very defensive when questioned about time spent playing such games – Lying – A defiant attitude to any attempts to make the person perform other activities – School performance and grades decline and lack of attendance becomes common – Isolation
Too much time gaming may just be a minor issue for your teen or it could be something far worse. Although quite controversial, online gaming addiction is worth paying attention to and studying further. The American Psychiatric Association voted on the matter in 2007 and does not consider “video game addiction” to be a mental disorder for now. But, when all of the above symptoms are seen, the quality of life of the individual will suffer. Interventions may be required in order for the gamer to understand the severity of the situation. To reverse the problems will likely require the help of a qualified addiction counselor.
Thank you to The Pinnacle Schools for their great information about at risk teens issues and programs for at risk teens issues.
May 14, 2011 | Posted by Sherri Littleton
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