Video Game Addiction Similar to Gambling for School-Aged Kids

Is your child playing more than 20 hours of video games a week? (That’s just under 3 hours a day).
Does he or she skip chores, perform poorly in school, think about playing games all the time or even lie about playing or steal money to buy games?
These are signs your child could have a problem with playing video games.

Iowa State University and the National Institute on Media and the Family recently performed a study that found 1 in 10 video gamers show signs of addiction, according to a recent press release.
This same study identified 11 symptoms of video game addiction including:

• skipping chores and homework for video games
• poor test or homework performance
• playing games to escape problems
• excessive thinking about games and planning the next opportunity
• trying to play less and failing
• restlessness or irritability when trying to reduce or stop playing
• lying about play time
• stealing a game or stealing money to buy a game
• dropping out of social groups and choosing to play video games rather than see friends.

According to a report from Connecticut Educational Service’s Dr. Richard Reynolds, a clinical psychologist and parent coach in child behavior, if your child exhibits 6 or more of these symptoms, he or she may have an addiction.
“While the medical community does not yet recognize video game addiction as a mental disorder, parents should monitor the amount of time their children spend playing these games, as well as be aware of the symptoms of video game addiction,” said Dr. Robert Reynolds in a recent press report.
“Similar to gambling, the pathological gamer is attracted to the lights, noise and thrill of the win,” adds Dr. Robert Reynolds. “This instant reward stimulates endorphins in the brain, making the addicted gamer wanting more and more.”
Dr. Reynolds does note that there are positives about moderate game playing including increased coordination and confidence. He also adds video games can be a way to reward positive behavior such as getting ready for bed on time, doing chores or finishing homework.
“As with all activities, the more involved a parent gets, the greater the chance of that child having a healthy development and lifelong success,” concluded Dr. Robert Reynolds.
Dr. Robert Reynolds has been on the leading edge of neurofeedback training since 1978 and was the first practice to offer the treatment in Connecticut. As a result, his clinic has become a sought after resource in helping students, families, schools and individuals cope with attention, learning and behavior challenges across the lifespan. Connecticut Educational Services utilizes the most advanced diagnostic and treatment techniques and provides all evaluations and treatments through highly trained licensed professionals.
Throughout the year, Dr. Robert Reynolds provides free educational seminars for parents of children with mental health conditions, as well as in-service school training that focus on classroom behavior management.
For a list of upcoming informational seminars or for more information on, call Connecticut Educational Services at 860.343.0227 or visit www.ct-ed.com.