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As the popularity of video games continues to rise, so does the discourse surrounding their potential for addiction among young individuals. Concerns about the mental health of American youth have prompted researchers to investigate the effects of video game addiction and its correlation with various psychological issues.
A comprehensive study conducted by researchers Shabina Mohammad, Raghad A Jan, and Saba L Alsaedi from Taibah University highlighted significant findings. Their research, titled “Symptoms, Mechanisms, and Treatments of Video Game Addiction,” emphasizes that the brain changes resulting from video game addiction are strikingly similar to those observed in individuals suffering from substance abuse and gambling addictions.
Defining video game addiction
The term video game addiction refers to excessive gaming behavior that interferes with daily life, responsibilities, and social interactions. The study indicates a troubling association between this addiction and conditions such as depression, anxiety, and social withdrawal. Such findings raise alarm bells for parents and educators alike.
Logan Kroll, a resident of Rogers City, shares his experience with gaming during his formative years. Reflecting on his childhood, he recalls the overwhelming allure of video games. “I used to stay up late playing games, often prioritizing them over my schoolwork,” Kroll admits. He observes that his youthful obsession with gaming led to a decline in his academic performance, as he struggled to balance responsibilities and gameplay.
The challenge of moderation
As a parent, Kroll introduces his five-year-old son to gaming through titles like Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater, which he deems non-violent. He appreciates the excitement his child finds in such games but also expresses a desire for his son to engage more in outdoor activities. “I believe kids should spend their early years playing outside rather than just in front of a screen,” Kroll remarks, suggesting a balanced approach to gaming during childhood.
Shyla Prevost, another Alpena resident, takes a different stance, adopting strict regulations regarding her children’s gaming habits. “I enforce a rule that prohibits gaming during the school week,” she explains, noting a stark shift in her children’s behavior since they began to engage with video games. Prevost observes that her kids, once enthusiastic about outdoor play, now prefer to interact with others through gaming consoles.
Parental guidance and societal perceptions
The issue of video game addiction often invokes heated discussions about parenting and societal responsibility. Gaige Tarsney, owner of K-otic Games in Alpena, provides insight into this perspective. He argues that while video games can indeed be addictive, they often serve as a convenient scapegoat for underlying parenting issues. “I believe the focus should be on how parents manage their children’s gaming habits rather than blaming the games themselves,” Tarsney asserts.
Tarsney acknowledges the appeal of gaming for individuals who may struggle with social interactions, providing a sense of belonging to those who feel isolated. “Gaming communities can offer a refuge for those lacking social skills or connections,” he notes, highlighting the duality of gaming as both a potential problem and a social outlet.
Addressing concerns about violence
Concerns regarding the violent content in video games are also prevalent in these discussions. Tarsney emphasizes the difference between passive consumption of violence in films and the active participation in video games. “When you’re controlling the game, it creates a different dynamic compared to watching violence unfold in other media,” he explains. However, he remains cognizant of the fear that video games may exacerbate aggressive behavior among players.
Ultimately, Tarsney feels that video games tend to be unfairly blamed, akin to other media forms that have faced scrutiny over the years. “Music and movies have also faced similar criticisms in the past,” he reflects, indicating a historical pattern of scapegoating in societal debates.
A comprehensive study conducted by researchers Shabina Mohammad, Raghad A Jan, and Saba L Alsaedi from Taibah University highlighted significant findings. Their research, titled “Symptoms, Mechanisms, and Treatments of Video Game Addiction,” emphasizes that the brain changes resulting from video game addiction are strikingly similar to those observed in individuals suffering from substance abuse and gambling addictions.0