Child Adolescent Video Game Addiction: psychological techniques to keep a child on line in Arizona and worldwide.
Sunday, January 29th, 2023In 2021 the Video Gaming industry was a 160 Billion dollar Industry. The Streaming and TV industry generated a little more in 2018 however has been around for decades more time. As you are aware the Gaming industry is growing each year and many children and teens are addicted to video games and spending more time with video games than: school, homework, family, and 1:! with friends.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), children aged 2 to 18 should limit their total screen time, including video games, to no more than 2 hours per day. The AAP also recommends that screen time should be limited for children under the age of 2.
It is important to note that excessive video gaming, defined as gaming for more than 2 hours per day and interfering with daily activities such as school, relationships, and physical health, can be problematic and indicative of a potential addiction.
It is important for parents and educators to monitor children’s video gaming habits and set healthy boundaries and guidelines to prevent excessive gaming and its negative impacts.
Video games can use partial reinforcement, which is a psychological principle that involves providing rewards at unpredictable intervals, to keep players hooked and engaged. This creates a sense of unpredictability and excitement, encouraging players to continue playing in hopes of receiving another reward.
Other psychological techniques used in video games to feed addiction include:
- Dopamine loops: Games are designed to release dopamine, a feel-good hormone, in the brain, through small rewards and achievements that keep players motivated and engaged.
- Variable Ratio Scheduling: This principle involves providing rewards at unpredictable intervals, making it difficult for players to stop playing as they constantly seek the next reward.
- Instant Gratification: Video games are designed to provide quick and instant feedback, satisfying players’ need for immediate rewards and encouraging them to continue playing.
- FOMO (Fear of Missing Out): Games use social media integration, leaderboards and other features to create a sense of competition and FOMO among players, keeping them engaged and playing for longer periods.
- Escapism: For some individuals, video games can provide an escape from stress, boredom, or real-life problems, making it more difficult for them to stop playing.
It is important for parents, educators, and players to be aware of these psychological techniques used in video games and to set limits and boundaries to prevent excessive gaming and video game addiction. For more info contact LifeworksAZ.com