Video games have become an increasingly popular form of entertainment, captivating millions of people worldwide. While gaming can provide enjoyment and relaxation, it is essential to understand its potential psychological effects, including addiction. Video game addiction, also known as gaming disorder, is a complex issue that affects individuals of all ages and can have significant consequences on their lives. The rise of games such as Minecraft, Fortnite, Call of Duty, and more has raised concerns about video game addiction and its impact on players, especially youth.
Understanding Video Game Addiction
While playing video games inherently is not a destructive behaviour and can be a form of relaxation, video game addiction is characterised by excessive and compulsive gaming behaviour, leading to a loss of control and negative consequences in various aspects of an individual's life. The World Health Organization (WHO) officially recognized video game addiction as a mental health disorder in 2018, listing it as "gaming disorder" in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11).
Reinforcement and reward mechanisms
One of the primary factors contributing to video game addiction is the reinforcement and reward mechanisms employed in game design. Game developers often include features that provide a sense of achievement, progress, and immediate rewards, such as leveling up, unlocking new content, or receiving virtual currency. These mechanisms activate the brain's reward system, releasing dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and motivation. The continuous pursuit of these rewards can lead to addictive behaviours.
Watch THIS VIDEO to learn more about how video games are made to fuel addiction.
Psychological needs fulfilled by gaming
Video games can fulfill various psychological needs, making them appealing to individuals susceptible to addiction. They provide a sense of competence and mastery, allowing players to overcome challenges and achieve goals. Games also offer social interaction through multiplayer features of online communities, which can be particularly appealing for individuals who struggle with social connections in the real world.
Impact on mental, physical health and well-being
Video game addiction can significantly impact mental health and overall well-being. Excessive gaming can lead to the following:
Increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression
Impaired sleep patterns
Disrupted academic or work performance
Strained relationships with family and friends.
In severe cases, individuals may experience:
Complete social isolation
Neglect of personal hygiene
Intense withdrawal symptoms when attempting to reduce or stop gaming, akin to individuals suffering from substance abuse
Extended periods of gaming can have extremely adverse effects on physical health. Individuals may experience:
Musculoskeletal problems, such as back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and poor posture due to prolonged sitting or repetitive movements.
Excessive or abrupt weight gain
Prolonged exposure to screens and blue light emitted by devices negatively impacts eye health.
While video games can be a source of entertainment and enjoyment, it is crucial to recognize the potential for addiction and its impact on mental and physical well-being. Understanding the psychology behind video game addiction can help individuals, families, and professionals address this growing problem effectively. By promoting responsible gaming habits, providing support, and seeking professional help when needed, we can ensure a healthier and more balanced relationship with video games.
Reference List:
Cleveland Clinic (2022). Video Game Addiction: What It Is, Symptoms & Treatment. [online] Cleveland Clinic. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23124-video-game-addiction.
goukigod (2019). Designing Addiction: The Twisted Psychology Of Game Design. [online] www.youtube.com. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K0M1PuQaE8s [Accessed 20 Jul. 2023].
icd.who.int. (n.d.). ICD-11 for Mortality and Morbidity Statistics. [online] Available at: https://icd.who.int/browse11/l-m/en#/http://id.who.int/icd/entity/1448597234/mms/unspecified [Accessed 28 Sep. 2023].
Luker, E. (2021). Are video games, screens an addiction? [online] Mayo Clinic Health System. Available at: https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/are-video-games-and-screens-another-addiction#:~:text=The%20reward%20center%20in%20the.
Psychology Today. (2019). Video Game Addiction. [online] Available at: https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/basics/video-game-addiction#:~:text=Researchers%20have%20linked%20excessive%20gaming,ADHD%2C%20depression%2C%20and%20anxiety. [Accessed 28 Sep. 2023].
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