It is not easy to tell whether you yourself, your children or someone you know is addicted to computer games. After all, gaming is part of everyday life for many people. Many Germans, particularly young people, play games every day – and this can lead to health problems. We’ll show you how to recognise the addiction.
Definition of computer game addiction
Playing for more than 30 hours a week – more and more Germans are addicted to computer games. Often, those affected or their relatives do not recognise the addiction. However, statistically speaking, those who spend too much time gaming are more likely to suffer from sleep disorders, poor posture or social problems. But what exactly is meant by addiction?
- In medical terms, doctors describe computer addiction as ‘pathological use of computers’ – in other words, an unhealthy relationship with computers. However, they further distinguish between different types of addictive behaviour based on their severity.
- A further distinction is whether someone is addicted to computer games, internet use, online pornography or social media.
- People are considered addicted when computer games have a significant impact on the affected person’s daily life. This does not stem from a desire, but from compulsion. As a result of this compulsive behaviour, addicts neglect friends, family, school, university or work.
- Among the most addictive games are ‘massively multiplayer online role-playing games’. In these, players undertake adventures either alone or in a group. Because these games are played online and there are constantly new tasks to complete, there is a constant pressure not to miss out on anything.
- Since 2018, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has recognised online gaming addiction as a distinct disorder.
Symptoms of computer game addiction
Computer game addiction is a serious addictive disorder. Those affected can no longer control their own use of the computer. The American Psychiatric Association has developed nine criteria to help identify computer game addiction. If at least five of the following nine criteria are observed within a year, you should consult a doctor.
- The first criterion is an exclusive preoccupation with online gaming. When the person affected is unable to play, all their thoughts revolve around the online game.
- Being unable to play the computer game triggers withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, nervousness, sadness or anxiety.
- The addict increasingly feels the need to spend more and more time playing computer games.
- The person affected deceives friends, family members and therapists about the true extent of their gaming addiction.
- The person affected uses the computer game to alleviate negative emotions such as fear, guilt or helplessness.
- Interest in previous hobbies or social contacts diminishes or is lost entirely.
- Even if the affected person recognises their psychosocial problems, they nevertheless continue to play excessively.
- All attempts to limit gaming are unsuccessful.
- The final symptom of gaming addiction is the risk that the addict will become completely absorbed in computer games. This carries the risk of losing contact with family and friends, or even losing their education or job.
- With this free tool, you can easily monitor your PC usage time. Click here to download ManicTime.
- Gaming addiction: You can seek advice here
Causes of computer game addiction
To better understand computer game addiction, it helps to know the causes. Addicts often immerse themselves in online games as a way of coping with stress. Personality and social environment also play a major role.
- The most common cause of computer game addiction is stress management. The distraction provided by gaming allows people who are depressed or socially withdrawn to forget their frustration and insecurity.
- Personality is also an important factor: people with ADHD are more likely to develop an addiction. People with low self-esteem find recognition in the virtual world and an opportunity to integrate that they lack in the real world.
- Addiction to computer games also develops neurobiologically. Excessive gaming triggers the same physiological processes in the brain as alcohol addiction. Furthermore, games entice players with a dangerous reward system that stimulates the brain to keep playing.
