Internet Gaming Disorder

What is Gaming Addiction?

Understanding Gaming Disorder in Children

Gaming has become a pervasive part of modern childhood, offering entertainment, social connection, and skill development. However, for a small but significant minority of young people, gaming can transition from a hobby to a serious concern.

This problematic pattern of behaviour is now formally recognized as Gaming Disorder by the World Health Organization (WHO) in its International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11). It can manifest with both online and offline gaming activities.

When it becomes a problem

Essentially, Gaming Disorder occurs when gaming takes precedence over other life interests and daily activities, leading to significant impairment in personal, family, social, educational, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

The excitement a player feels from advancing in a game or achieving a reward is a key factor, as this sensation releases dopamine in the brain. This neurochemical “kick” is comparable to what individuals addicted to substances experience, fostering a powerful reward-seeking cycle.

Over time, players may repeatedly seek this feeling of reward, and when combined with a lack of self-control, this can lead to addictive patterns of play.

Understanding the Landscape of Gaming Disorder

Modern video games are fundamentally different from those of the past. Crucially, many contemporary games often have no definitive ending, encouraging continuous engagement. They also heavily reward multi-player interaction, which makes gaming a highly social experience for many.

Conversely, some games are intentionally designed to “punish” players who disengage, for instance, by allowing in-game progress or hard work to be destroyed while the player is offline. These numerous factors can collectively contribute to the development of problematic gaming patterns.

Diagnostic Criteria for Gaming Disorder (WHO – ICD-11)

For Gaming Disorder to be diagnosed, a persistent or recurrent pattern of gaming behaviour must be present, characterized by:

Impaired control over gaming: This includes factors such as onset, frequency, intensity, duration, termination, and context of gaming. The individual struggles to limit their gaming.

Increasing priority given to gaming: Gaming becomes more important than other life interests and daily activities.

Continuation or escalation of gaming despite the occurrence of negative consequences: The individual continues to game even when aware of the negative impact on their life (e.g., poor grades, neglected hygiene, strained relationships).

For a diagnosis, this behaviour pattern must be severe enough to result in significant impairment in personal, family, social, educational, occupational, or other crucial areas of functioning.

Typically, this pattern of behaviour would have been evident for at least 12 months, although the duration requirement may be shortened if all diagnostic requirements are met and symptoms are severe.

The Neurobiology of Gaming and Addiction

The brain’s reward system plays a central role in how gaming can become addictive. When a player achieves a goal, levels up, or finds a rare item, the brain releases dopamine. This neurotransmitter is associated with pleasure, motivation, and reinforcement of behaviour.

Consequently, the brain learns to associate gaming actions with these pleasurable dopamine surges, compelling the player to repeat the actions to experience the “reward” again. This intermittent reinforcement, where rewards are unpredictable, is particularly powerful and akin to mechanisms found in gambling.

Over time, the brain may begin to prioritize these digital rewards over real-world achievements, potentially leading to a reduced interest in other life activities.

How Modern Game Design Fuels Engagement

Game developers intentionally integrate psychological tactics to maintain player engagement for extended periods. These include:

Variable Reward Schedules: Rewards are given unpredictably (e.g., loot boxes, rare item drops), creating a constant sense of anticipation and excitement.

Progression Systems: Levelling up, unlocking new content, and meta-achievements (like Xbox Gamerscore or PlayStation Trophies) provide continuous goals and a feeling of accomplishment, even after the main game is “completed.”

Social Connectivity and FOMO (Fear of Missing Out): Multiplayer games foster strong online communities. Players may feel pressured to log in daily to collect bonuses, participate in limited-time events, or maintain their status within their peer group, fearing they’ll miss out on social interactions or in-game advantages if they don’t.

Ethical Monetisation (and its pitfalls): In-app purchases, microtransactions, and “pay-to-win” mechanics can create pressure to spend real money for virtual advantages, sometimes exploiting psychological vulnerabilities.

Endless Gameplay Loops: Many popular games are designed to be played indefinitely, with new content, challenges, and seasonal updates constantly introduced.

Prevalence and Risk Factors

Studies suggest that Gaming Disorder affects only a small proportion of people who engage in gaming activities. However, it’s a growing concern.

Research in Ireland has indicated that a small percentage of gamers demonstrate disordered characteristics, with a slightly higher prevalence among males.

Risk factors for developing Gaming Disorder include:

Pre-existing Mental Health Issues: Individuals with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or social isolation may be more susceptible, often using gaming as a coping mechanism or escape.

Personality Traits: Impulsive or sensation-seeking tendencies can increase risk.

Family Environment: Lack of parental supervision, strained family relationships, or an early introduction to extensive gaming can contribute.

Peer Influence: Pressure from online friends to constantly play or keep up with in-game achievements.

Identifying Problematic Gaming Behaviour

One of the first steps for parents is to determine if a genuine problem exists. Parents should observe their child’s overall behaviour and the impact of gaming on various aspects of their life.

Signs that may indicate a gaming addiction problem include:

Social Withdrawal: The child becomes socially isolated, preferring gaming over real-world interactions with friends and family.

Excessive Gaming Hours: Spending countless hours playing games, often late into the night, leading to sleep deprivation.

Neglect of Responsibilities: Prioritizing gaming over schoolwork, chores, personal hygiene, and other important obligations.

Aggressive Reactions: Displaying irritability, anger, anxiety, or aggression when attempts are made to limit or interrupt gaming sessions.

Lying or Hiding: Being secretive about gaming time or lying about the amount of time spent playing.

Loss of Interest: No longer engaging in hobbies or activities they once enjoyed.

Physical Symptoms: Experiencing fatigue, headaches, eye strain, or carpal tunnel syndrome from prolonged gaming.

Using Gaming as an Escape: Consistently turning to games to cope with stress, anxiety, sadness, or real-life problems.

Impacts of Gaming Disorder

Untreated Gaming Disorder can lead to significant negative consequences, including:

Academic Decline: Poor grades, missed assignments, or truancy due to prioritizing gaming over school.

Mental Health Issues: Increased risk of anxiety, depression, social phobias, and sleep disturbances.

Physical Health Problems: Sedentary lifestyle leading to obesity, poor posture, vision problems, and neglect of personal hygiene.

Strained Relationships: Conflict with family and friends due to withdrawal, irritability, or dishonesty.

Financial Issues: Excessive spending on in-game purchases, loot boxes, or new games.

Advice for Parents: A Proactive and Supportive Approach

Recognizing problematic gaming is crucial, but addressing it requires a nuanced and supportive approach. While games can certainly encourage the development of certain skill sets (e.g., problem-solving, strategic thinking, teamwork), moderation is always key. Over-use or excessive exposure will inevitably have a negative impact on a child’s overall well-being.

Key Strategies for Parents:

Open and Non-Judgmental Communication: Instead of immediately imposing bans, initiate open conversations with your child about their gaming. Understand why they enjoy gaming, what they gain from it (e.g., social connection, sense of achievement).

Express your concerns calmly and listen to their perspective.

Collaborative Boundary Setting: Work with your child to establish clear, consistent rules for gaming time and content.

This might involve:

- Time Limits: Set agreed-upon daily or weekly limits. Aim to limit game play to no more than 2 hours a day for younger children.

- Tech-Free Zones/Times: Designate certain areas (e.g., dining table, bedrooms after a certain hour) or times (e.g., during meals, before bed) as completely screen-free.

- Screen Time Contracts: Formalize agreements about gaming rules, consequences for breaking them, and rewards for adherence.

- Device Access: You can restrict access to devices or set a period of time before a device can be used again. Remember that access to these devices for children is a privilege, not a right.

Encourage and Model Alternative Activities:

- Suggest other interests: Actively encourage engagement in diverse activities, preferably physical activities (sports, outdoor play) or creative pursuits (art, music, reading).

- Plan Family Time: Schedule regular family activities that don’t involve screens.

- Model Healthy Habits: Children learn by example. Be mindful of your own screen time and digital habits.

Stay Involved and Informed:

- Understand the Games: Ask your child about the games they play. Understand the mechanics, objectives, and social aspects. Even consider playing with them sometimes. This shows interest and allows you to assess suitability.

- Check Age Ratings: Familiarize yourself with age rating systems (e.g., PEGI in Europe) to help decide if a game is suitable for your child.

- Monitor In-Game Spending: Discuss microtransactions, loot boxes, and in-app purchases. Set clear rules and spending limits to prevent accidental or excessive financial outlay.

Address Underlying Issues: If gaming is used as an escape, try to understand the root causes. Is your child struggling with school, social anxiety, or bullying? Addressing these underlying issues is crucial for sustainable change.

Seek Professional Help: If you observe severe and persistent signs of Gaming Disorder, or if your child’s behaviour is significantly impacting their life and you’re struggling to manage it, do not hesitate to seek professional help.

- In Ireland, there are now centres offering treatments for Gaming Addiction, such as The Rutland Centre in Dublin, which specializes in behavioural addictions. Other mental health services or child and adolescent psychologists may also be able to assist.

- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a widely recommended therapeutic approach for Gaming Disorder, helping individuals understand and manage their gaming urges.

The most important message we can give you is that it is OK for a parent to say ‘NO’ and set firm boundaries when it comes to gaming, prioritizing their child’s well-being above all else.

Partner with Children of the Digital Age for Enhanced Online Safety

At Children of the Digital Age, we are deeply committed to supporting parents. We help them navigate the ever-evolving landscape of digital parenting.

Understanding and addressing Gaming Disorder is a critical component of online safety for kids. We strongly encourage you to explore our wider array of comprehensive resources dedicated to fostering a secure and positive digital experience for your family.

For broader educational resources, workshops, or personalised advice on managing screen time and addressing problematic gaming, do not hesitate to contact Children of the Digital Age.

We are here to offer expert guidance, ensuring your children enjoy the digital world safely and responsibly. Your child’s digital wellbeing and online safety remain our utmost priority.

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