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Key points
- The prevalence of internet gaming disorder is relatively low.
- Families should be aware that excessive gaming can lead to compulsive behavior.
- Treatment such as CBT can help as can shifts in young people's schedules and mindsets.
Computer games: Beneficial and fun, or pure evil? I’d like to tell you that I can provide a definitive answer. But the research jury is very much out on this.
The academic literature is wrought with writings about how playing video games can have negative effects. However, such concerns do not appear to be shared by the public at large. Broadly, it seems that most people believe that computer games are in fact positive. However, it can also be detrimental to some.
As many parents of teenage kids know, it can be a constant battle (no pun intended) to get them of their screens while gaming. But it is worth noting that it is not only teenagers who are at risk from excessive gaming; adults and young kids can struggle with hitting the off switch as well. In fact, as many as 65% of the adult U.S. population play computer games and 25% of them are age 45 or older.
Excessive gaming can lead to the condition described as Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR) which is used by mental health professionals to diagnose mental health conditions. The DSM-5 lists nine symptoms of IGD:
- If a person uses gaming to relieve their negative mood.
- Unable to stop.
- Have withdrawal symptoms when they can’t game.
- Preoccupied with gaming.
- Give up on other activities.
- Have a need to spend more time gaming to satisfy their urge.
- Deceiving others about the amount of time spent on gaming.
- Having jeopardized a relationship or maybe lost a job due to playing games.
- Continue to game despite experiencing problems.
For a diagnosis of IGD to be made, an individual needs to meet five of the nine criteria. It is worth noting that men and boys are more likely to have the disorder. While no one knows exactly how many people might qualify for the diagnosis, there are suggestions that the prevalence in the global population may be around 3.05%. In real terms, that is around 60 million people. Given that there are an estimated 2.7 billion existing gamers worldwide, the likelihood of addictive relationship with gaming is relatively low.
Problem gamers
Many gamers who do not meet the criteria for IGD may still fall into a category of individuals who may require help, typically referred to as problem gamers. These are gamers who, at times, meet two or three of the DSM criteria. The prevalence of problem gamers may around 7%, significantly larger than the group meeting the criteria for IGD.
Problem gaming, like IGD, is more prevalent among males than females. Problem gamers tend to have poor psychosomatic health and the condition is associated with suicidal ideation, so it should be treated seriously.
Not always straightforward
Whilst the symptoms are easy to spot, it is important to put them into context and make sure that a person of concern show multiple symptoms over time. For example, the amount of time spent on gaming can be an indicator as to whether a person is addicted. Some people suffering from IGD spend as much as twelve hours a day gaming. However, this is by no means applicable to all and currently, there is no criteria for how much time a person needs to be gaming. Many gamers will at some point spend too much time gaming and remember being passionate is not the same as having an illness. Without other symptoms it does not mean they are addicted or even a problem gamer. But if you notice excessive gaming with, let’s say, irritability and withdrawal from other activities that they used to enjoy, then keep an eye on them to see if they also fit other DSM criteria.
Even if gamers show behaviours consistent with addiction or problematic gaming, there are researchers who think that it is too difficult to distinguish between the two concepts.
Can it be treated?
Research into IGD and treatment are ongoing, but some success has been found using cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). One study found that, compared with supportive therapy, CBT had a better success rate in decreasing compulsive internet behavior, anxiety, impulsivity, and social avoidance. Others have suggested that medications used to treat depression and ADHD can help as well. Mindfulness has also been found to help with the reduction of IGD symptoms as it helps reduce the urge to play games, and maladaptive cognitions associated with gaming.
Consider setting household rules as preventative steps
If you are a parent to an avid gamer, establishing rules for when and how often a child can game can help problematic gaming from developing. Restricting gaming time can lead to better sleep, better school grades, less aggression, and a reduced risk of obesity. If you are unsure what a suitable time allocation may be, perhaps consider following the American Association of Paediatrics' recommendation of 1-2 hours of total screen time per day. This may be a challenge at first, but it is bound to become much easier over time as kids adjust and get used to doing other activities instead.
The same applies to an adult who recognises that they spend to much time on gaming. Set yourself a time limit. Set a timer, and when the time is up, stop immediately and do something else. If you find it difficult ask friends and family for help. Tell them you have some concerns and that you are trying to cut back. Ask if they can do more social activities with you, to get you away from the screen. Additionally, consider doing activities that specifically relieves stress, as that is often what excessive gaming is about. Perhaps go for a challenging long walk or bike ride, whatever may work best for you.
To find a therapist, visit the Psychology Today Therapy Directory.
