Gaming Addiction Debunked Have fun and keep safe.
Is Computer Game addiction a problem? We take a responsible look.
Family bonding has been found by research to be a positive advantage flowing from the presence of computer games in the home. In surveys, parents also cite other benefits for their offspring through computer gaming, including improved hand-eye co-ordination and manual dexterity, improved memory and recall, opportunities for learning and cognitive exercise, stress relief and relaxation and confidence-building Any Nintendo Wii-owning families can add a comprehensive physical workout to that list!
According to his research, author of several in-depth studies into online gaming and gambling addiction Psychologist Professor Mark Griffiths, has stated that for the majority of gamers, excessive playing is not a problem.
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 explained that many people liked to play MMORPGs - Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Games - for long periods of time because of the social aspect of the games. He also added that “If you are going to take it seriously, you have to spend time doing it.”
Four players out of 540 gamers in a detailed survey conducted by Professor Griffiths and his team - less than 0.75% - were found to be playing more than 80 hours a week, which by accepted standards is considered excessive. Well, the question is: “do you need to watch yourself?” There is a difference between “healthy enthusiasm” and “unhealthy addiction.” warns Professor Griffiths pointing out that “extreme players” would include people who sacrificed jobs, partners and loved ones to indulge their need to play.
The advice was that if worried about gaming addiction, to contact ones doctor to be referred to a psychologist
Computer Gaming can be addictive to the point of seriously impacting on a person’s life. There is no doubt that compulsive computer gaming has become a potentially dangerous condition requiring structured therapy in extreme cases. 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 concise article is one of three dealing with the issue of Computer Games Addiction. Presented by a website dealing only with Video and Online Gaming with the purpose of presenting a balanced and proportionate view of this important topic.
