Gaming disorder is a real condition. Does your kid have it?
The World Health Organization says that compulsively playing video games now qualifies as a new mental health condition, in a move that some critics warn may risk stigmatizing too many young players. (June 18) AP
With video games like "Fortnite" becoming more popular among teens and athletes, the medical community is taking a close look at how games may impact a person's health.
The World Health Organization has added gaming disorder to its draft for the 11th Revision International Classification of Diseases. The manual is used by medical practitioners and researchers.
According to a 2015 survey by the Pew Research Center, 50 percent of men and 48 percent of women play video games. But there is a line between hobby and addiction.
Dr. Raymond Bunch, a psychiatrist at Phoenix Children's Hospital, said that line depends on the activity and the characteristics of the individual.
What is a gaming disorder?
The WHO defines the disorder as a pattern of gaming behavior that includes:
- impaired control over gaming.
- increasing priority given to gaming over other activities and interests.
- continuation/escalation of gaming despite occurrence of negative consequences.
The organization said the behavior must be severe in order for the disorder to be diagnosed by a professional. According to WHO, symptoms include:
- The behavior is dominating the person's life.
- The behavior is present for at least 12 months.
What are the concerns?
WHO said the disorder only affects a small group, but it should be a concern to all who take part in the activity.
The organization said families should be attentive to how much time a child is spending on gaming and how it is impacting relationships and activities like school.
Bunch, who is a clinical professor at the University of Arizona College of Medicine, said parents should try to gain some control of the hours that gaming occurs, but also help children know how to control themselves.
"Learning how to regulate oneself is a part of adolescence," Bunch said.
The disorder can impact a person's health. According to WHO, it may disturb sleeping patterns and nutrition.
"Gaming should not occur before bedtime," Bunch said.
According to the doctor, using electronics before bedtime can hurt sleep because the brain can't fully relax.
Once a person is diagnosed with a gaming disorder, they can receive treatment from a professional.
Bunch said treatments could include counseling, intense outpatient treatments, and social activities that can keep them occupied.
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