Video games started out as a popular entertainment option for the slightly computer savvy, as early as the 1970s. Today, they are even more popular than ever, even to the point of what some call harmful addictions for thousands of “gamers” – though varying definitions of game addiction exist.
The issue is drawing more attention, with rising numbers of teens and younger children becoming immersed in the sedentary habit of video gaming. Experts estimate close to 9 percent of youth aged 8 to 18 years are addicted to video games in the U.S. Furthermore, a 2007 poll directed by the Harris research company reports that nearly 25 percent of gamers think they may be addicted.
Psychologists and mental health experts continue to debate whether video gaming is a true addiction like compulsive gambling and other game-based habits. The answer to the addiction question may lie in the nature of gamers’ compulsive playing, strong urges for the games, and experiences of game withdrawal.
The subject of addictive gaming has been the source of reports published both by the American Psychiatric Association and LiveScience. According to the American Psychiatric Association, a 2007 vote did not list video gaming as an officially-diagnosed addiction in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, often referred to as the “bible” of addictions. Video game addiction may be up for consideration, however, in the 2012 edition.
By a less scientific explanation, video game addiction may be real if the addict uses games to a point where their life is disrupted. A gamer may be labeled pathological if games are played at levels reaching 24 hours each week; if the person has trouble concentrating in school; if grades suffer; or if relationships in the real world are damaged.
Perhaps the most addictive style of gaming is Multi-Player Online Role Playing Games, which allow a player to interact with players from across the globe. The games typically use high-end graphics, contributing to their ability to get players “hooked.”
If a gamer becomes too obsessed with the habit, reality can blur and meld into the fantasy world of video games. Strong relational ties can be generated toward players people have never met, and they may neglect work or sell possessions to acquire more games and game time. Some players may lose weight, ignore social relationships, and stay up all night to play. Even more dangerous is the risk that players will associate their game success with their identity and value as a person.
Withdrawal from addictive video gaming can resemble withdrawal from other compulsive behavior disorders. Psychiatrist Dr. Hilarie Cash founded a 45-day program to help game addicts recover. The program, based in Falls City, Washington, is one of the country’s first dedicated to gamers and offers inpatient therapy.
Debate continues as to whether video gaming is a true addiction, but many mental health experts agree people who fall into compulsive video gaming may also be more likely to turn to addictions like alcohol or drugs. For this reason, parents and therapists are urged to take video gaming habits seriously, especially among teens and young people.
