Video games are relatively new technology, so research and medical studies are not as developed yet. But, there is significant evidence that gaming is a behavior that can become addictive. And game manufacturers are not only aware of this, but they have actively tried to make games that exploit this behavior. Many game companies have hired or consulted with behavioral psychologists and neuroscientists to help develop games that encourage addictive behavior. These are similar techniques used by casinos. These techniques have included creating games that specifically trigger response/reward behavior and stimulation to trigger dopamine release. And these sorts of manipulations can be particularly impactful to children. Clinical evidence shows that subjects addicted to video games experience biopsychological symptoms and complications, including handovers, changes in mood, adaptability, and withdrawal.
Over the past few decades, a lot of research has gone into understanding how addictive behavior works and what can trigger that behavior. And game developers incorporate this research into a strategy when these games are being developed.
This includes practices like incorporating feedback loops into the game design that encourage the player to continue playing the game as their brains reward them with surges of dopamine for continued success. Furthermore, visual and auditory elements are designed to stimulate the player’s senses in way that rewards continued play.
With enough exposure, the player can become dependent on the game in order maintain a sufficient level of happiness or pleasure. And disengagement from the game can actually cause symptoms of psychological withdrawal not unlike any other addictive drug.
Players addicted to video games can experience harmful side effects just like they would with a drug addiction.
Players can experience intense mood shifts, develop compulsive behavior, engage in deceptive behavior in order to continue their gaming habit, become erratic and ignore daily responsibilities and other social interaction.
And, this is all by the design of the game developers. Some of these game companies use this addiction behavior to increase their revenue with predatory monetary strategies and by collecting data to promote personalized content. They will use this addictive behavior to drain their players of money by incentivizing additional in-game purchases that promise the reward of a better gaming experience, much like a drug dealer promising a new drug will provide a better high.
People who have developed a gaming addiction will frequently need to treat it the same way one would a drug addiction. Addicted gamers frequently need therapy, counseling, and medication in order to treat their addiction.
If you or someone you know has experienced any of these symptoms from playing video games, then you may require therapy, counseling, medication, or addiction treatment.
SYMPTOMS OF GAMING ADDICTION
Distracting preoccupation with gaming
Deception about gaming habits/frequency
Gaming interfering with daily activities
Loss of interest in other activities
Withdrawal from social life
Emotional or psychological changes
Using gaming as an easy escape from life
Gaming despite experiencing consequences
And you may be entitled to compensation from these negligent companies.
Brent Coon & Associates can help assess whether you have developed an addiction and the full scope of how that has impacted your life.