Could Your Child Be Suffering From Video Game Addiction?
We've all wondered at some point if our teenagers were suffering from a drug addiction - after all, they act really strange at times, and those clothes they wear! But, did you know that it is entirely possible for your teen to be suffering from a different type of addiction altogether? Namely, video game addiction.
You may laugh, but think about how many hours your son or daughter spends in front of the television. Thumbs racing wildly, pushing buttons and moving joysticks. Shouting gleefully as they destroy their latest target. Fighting games, military combat, mystical fantasy settings; you name it, there's been a game made about it. Video game addiction is every bit as real an addiction as any to drugs, alcohol, or food. And it can be every bit as dangerous.
Recognizing The Signs
Every parent's nightmare is waking up one day to find that their child has become addicted to a deadly substance. And parents are continuously on the lookout for signs that their son or daughter may be experimenting with something they shouldn't be. It may not be as easy to recognize a video game addiction, but there are signs that parents can watch for, nonetheless. It is important to understand that, as of yet, the American Psychiatric Association does not consider video game addiction to be a legally recognized mental disorder.
There are several signs that you can watch for, that will give you an indication of whether or not your teen may have a video game addiction. While many teens' grades drop for many reasons, a sudden and severe drop in grades can be an indication that something more serious is going on - other than the normal teen boredom. Withdrawal from previously enjoyed social activities, including sports and outside activities with friends is also a sign that your teen may have an addictive personality when it comes to video games.
Treating Your Child's Addiction
It is important that you understand that the games are not in and of themselves the cause for your child's video game addiction. Taking them away will probably not help the situation, as there are simply entirely too many outlets for teens to get more. Instead, try to engage your teen in healthier activities, and help them to focus their addictive behavior toward something that can actually benefit them.
If you are unable to put an end to your child's video game addiction on your own, there have been several different support groups started recently that offer help for addicted gamers.; and anti-depressants may help to combat their addictive behavior.
