THE GAMBLE: Most parents are unaware of the risks associated with video game play. Studies indicate that over twenty percent of adolescent children are addicted - with boys much more likely to become hooked than girls. (April, 2003 - National Institute on Media and the Family)
MADE FOR ADDICTION: Most video games trigger physiological reactions in the brain similar to those associated with substance abuse.
GAME SYSTEM OWNERSHIP: More than eight in ten kids own at least one game system. (Kaiser Family Foundation, 3/05)
FAVORITE GAMES: According to a November 2004 report from the National Institute on Media and the Family, 78% of adolescent boys admit that “M” rated games are among their favorites. (www.mediafamily.org)
Why So Addictive?
LIKE A DRUG: One of the key reasons video games are addictive is the physiological effect. A study in London found playing games triggers release of dopamine in the brain. Researchers discovered that dopamine production in the brain doubles during video game play. The increase of the psychoactive chemical was roughly the same as when a person is injected with amphetamines. MORE:http://exn.ca/Stories/1998/06/12/59.asp
RISK ASSESSMENT QUESTIONS: A 2002 survey sampling 223 adolscents conducted by the Society for the Study of Addiction to Alcohol and Other Drugs posed the following situations to help determine patterns of video game addiction.
PREOCCUPATION: When I am not playing with the video games, I keep thinking about them (i.e. remembering games, planning the next game, etc.)
TOLERANCE: I spend an increasing amount of time playing video games.
LOSS OF CONTROL: I have tried to control, cut back or stop playing, or I usually play with the video games over a longer period than I intended.
LOSS OF CONTROL: When I lose in a game or I have not obtained the desired results, I need to play again to achieve my target.
WITHDRAWAL: When I can't use the video games I get restless or irritable.
ESCAPE:When I feel bad, etc. nervous, sad, or angry, or when I have problems, I use the video games more often.
LIES AND DECEPTION:Sometimes I conceal my video game playing to my parents, friends, teachers, etc.
DISREGARD FOR CONSEQUENCES: In order to play video games I have skipped classes or work, or lied, or stolen, or had an argument or a fight with someone.
LIFE DISRUPTION: Because of the video game playing I have reduced my homework, or schoolwork, or I have not eaten, or I have gone to bed late, or I spent less time with my friends and family.
