Games Addiction in Context
Gaming Addiction Debunked Have fun and keep safe.
A responsible look at Computer Games addiction.
Family bonding has been found by research to be a positive advantage flowing from the presence of computer games in the home. Research has also found parents witnessing in their children enhanced hand-eye co-ordination, improved memory and recall, reduced stress and signs of improved relaxation ability and not least, building of self-confidence. Physical fitness can be added to the list of any family owning a Nintendo Wii!
Online gaming and gambling is not problematic for the majority of gamers advised Psychologist Professor Mark Griffiths, author of several in-depth studies into online gaming and gambling addiction.
He did say however that: “It does seem to be the case that online gaming addiction for a small minority is a real phenomenon and people suffer the same symptoms as traditional addictions.” {“But the good news is that it is a small minority.”}
Professor Griffiths adds that “MMORPGs – Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Games – are the types of games that completely engross the player. They are not games that you can play for 20 minutes and stop. He also tagged on: “If you are going to take it seriously, you have to spend time doing it.”
In one detailed survey of 540 gamers, Professor Griffith and his team found that there were four – less than 0.75% – playing more than 80 hours a week, 80 hours being considered “excessive”. Well, the question is: “do you need to watch yourself?” Professor Griffiths warned there was a difference between “healthy enthusiasm” and “unhealthy addiction.” People who sacrificed jobs, partners and loved ones were considered “extreme players” and most likely to be at risk of affecting their health.
Professor Griffith’s advice was that if concerned about gaming addiction, ask for a referral by your doctor to a psychologist.
Over the last ten years, internet addiction disorder has become much more prevalent and not least amongst the offenders are Online and Video Games. Compulsive computer gaming is now generally recognized as a condition to watch for and if necessary to treat. There is nevertheless much about which to be excited and positive as explained earlier and in Part 1 and as you will also read in the concluding part.
This is one of three concise articles, looking at the thorny matter of Computer Gaming Addicition. Submitted by a site dedicated to computer video and online gaming with the purpose of presenting a balanced and proportionate view of this important topic.
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Tags: addiction, computer, computer gaming addiction, game, games, gaming, online gaming addiction, video, video game addiction
