Understanding Video Game Addiction
Video games include computer games, console games, arcade machine games, and even cell phone, and advanced calculator games. Games can be embedded in social networking sites, such as Facebook. Since the 1950s, gaming has grown into a multi-billion dollar industry. Some people are concerned about the long-term effects of video game playing, particularly in children. Concerns center on the following questions:
“Are video games harmful?” “Do violent video games cause aggression?” “Are video games addictive?”
While research is inconclusive, there does appear to be evidence that video games can be harmful, can increase aggression, and can be addictive. However, these effects are highly individual and may involve many more factors than simply the amount of time spent playing games.
Signs of Video Game Addiction
Some symptoms of video game addiction can include:
Neglecting duties at work, home, or school in order to play video gamesThinking about video games all the timeNot being able to decrease playing time even when you tryContinuing to play despite the problems video games cause in your lifePlaying video games to deal with anxiety, bad moods, or negative feelingsFeeling upset if you are not able to gameNot doing other things you used to enjoy in order to play video gamesHiding how much time you spend playing video games or lying about your gaming habits
Playing video games a lot is not necessarily a sign of a video game addiction, however. Some people are simply very enthusiastic about them and that is how they enjoy spending their free time. If gaming creates distress and interferes with a person’s ability to function in their life, then it might be a sign that there is a problem. As with all addictions, it is important when considering the possibility of a video game addiction to not simply consider the amount of time spent gaming, but also the function it is serving the individual. Video game playing, as one of a range of recreational activities, may not be harmful or indicate an addiction. Video game addiction or video game overuse is seen most commonly in players of the persistent multiplayer gaming universe, or Massive Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game—MMORPG games for short. MMORPGs make up 25% of gaming revenue worldwide. These games hold many attractions for gamers—they are interactive, social, competitive, and happen in real-time. Research indicates that MMORPGs are more addictive in nature. As a result, they tend to have greater negative impacts on physical health, sleep habits and academic performance.
Diagnosis of Video Game Addiction
Like other behavioral addictions, video game addiction is a controversial idea. While video gaming research is showing some disturbing effects, particularly in younger players, there is a lack of long-term research and insufficient evidence to definitively conclude that video game overuse is indeed an addiction. In addition, cautionary messages from groups, such as the American Medical Association, which believes that video games are potentially harmful, have to compete with the aggressive marketing of the video games industry, whose own research, unsurprisingly, shows no ill effects. Currently, it is not recognized as a distinct condition in the “Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders” (DSM-5-TR), the “gold standard” reference for mental health conditions. Internet gaming disorder, however, is included as a condition for further study in the DSM. To be diagnosed, gaming behavior must be severe enough that it creates significant problems in different areas of life, including home, work, family, school, and other areas. Symptoms must also be present for a year or longer.
Similarity to Other Addictions
Video game addictions are similar to other addictions in terms of the amount of time spent playing, the strong emotional attachment to the activity, and the patterns of social difficulties experienced by gaming addicts. As with other addictions, gaming addicts become preoccupied with game-playing, and it disrupts family and other areas of life, such as school. As with other addictive behaviors, there is a range of different responses to the activity. While some gamers feel unable to reduce the time they spend playing, others do not experience cravings if they are unable to play.
Effects of Video Game Addiction
Some studies suggest that violent video games may increase aggressive thoughts and behaviors. However, there is conflicting research on this, and some studies have not found this effect or suggest that it is influenced by other factors such as moral disengagement and disinhibition. People who are addicted to video games also have increased emotional difficulties, including increased depression and anxiety, report feeling more socially isolated, and are more likely to have problems with internet pornography use.
Treatment for Video Game Addiction
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that can be helpful in the treatment of behavioral addictions such as video game addiction. Working with a therapist, people learn to identify the thoughts that contribute to excessive, compulsive video game use. Once people learn to recognize these thoughts, they can then work to replace them with ones that are more helpful and productive.
Coping With Video Game Addiction
If you suspect that you have a video game addiction or simply want to reduce your video game use, there are strategies you can use that can help. Some things you can try include:
Setting limits on your video game use: Decide how much you want to play each day. Set aside a specific block of time and set a timer so you’ll know when it is time to quit. Consider enlisting the help of a friend to help keep you accountable. Find distractions: Look for other things to hold your interest and fill your time when you feel the urge to play video games. Going for a walk, calling a friend, watching a movie, or reading a book are a few ideas, but trying out new hobbies and interests can also serve as welcome distractions. Keep electronics out of your bedroom: Keep gaming systems, phones, and other electronic devices out of your bedroom so you aren’t tempted to play games in the evening or before bedtime. Practice relaxation techniques: If you are playing games in order to cope with feelings of stress or anxiety, try replacing your gaming habit with other effective coping strategies. Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness meditation, and yoga can be a great way to unwind and destress without having to rely on video games.
For more mental health resources, see our National Helpline Database.
