Is my child a gamer? How to identify and cope with gambling addiction

Content:

• Gambling addiction - what is it?
• Gaming addiction in children and adolescents Games can be useful!
• All harm comes from abuse
• At-risk groups
• Myths about computer games

Gambling addiction - what is it?

People who love to gamble can often be accused of gambling addiction. However, not all players are truly sick.

Gaming addiction is a purported form of psychological addiction that involves compulsive involvement with video games and computer games.

The American Psychiatric Association identifies the following symptoms of addiction to computer (and other online) games:

• the appearance of obsessive thoughts about the game, even during other activities;
• restless, irritable, sometimes unreasonably sad state of the player when trying to reduce the playing time or abandon it;
• the need to increase the time in the game and use a more powerful gadget;
• loss of control over the situation: inability to exit the game on your own, stop thinking about the game;
• perception of other entertainment (communication with friends, hobbies) as interference;
• inability to stop, even with awareness of all the negative consequences (or manifestations of some of them): poor health, problems with studies, financial expenses, conflicts with loved ones;
• the need to lie to yourself and loved ones about the amount of time spent in the game.

Currently, according to various studies, from 12 to 25% of people around the world suffer from gambling addiction. Since the problem is becoming more obvious every year, in January 2022, gambling addiction will be included in the ICD-11 reference book on the recommendation of the World Health Organization.

Gambling addiction in children and adolescents

Modern people get acquainted with the world of computer games (including applications on the phone) quite early. According to sociological studies, 88% of children already have such experience by the time they start school. According to media reports, a symptom of computer gaming addiction is found in 10-14% of Russian teenagers.

Games can be useful!

It cannot be said unequivocally that computer games are harmful to the psyche and health of a child, but excessive passion for them can undoubtedly have great consequences. In small doses, games allow you to relieve stress, practice various skills, and can teach foreign languages ​​through communication with other players.

For example, puzzle games allow a child to develop spatial and logical thinking, teach them to look for a creative solution and a non-standard approach. Students who play computer games online overcome the language barrier faster and learn English more easily.

Particularly interested children begin to look for loopholes and cheat codes, which greatly develops their computer literacy. Regular achievements in the game allow the child to increase his self-esteem. Professors at Trent University and Stanford University have found that people who play good characters behave the same way when interacting with people in real life.

All harm comes from abuse

We must always remember that the virtual world should not replace the real one. And children often have quite a lot of problems in the real world that cannot be solved by restarting the application. If you look at the guys immersed in the world of games, you will notice several patterns: as a rule, they have no other hobbies and no clear daily routine . The child is left to his own devices and enjoys himself in the simplest and most accessible way - through a gadget.

In addition, computer game developers often use a cyclical reward system. By forcing the player to complete more and more levels, for which he receives a virtual reward, which in turn activates the production of dopamine, the “pleasure hormone.” All children like to be praised and given gifts, and a computer game is an ideal environment where, with minimal effort, you can get a delicious feeling of victory.

Thus, when a child does not have sufficient support from adults and peers and he has no other hobbies in life, virtual fantasies will easily absorb him.

At-risk groups

Most often, insecure and anxious teenagers fall into the trap. They are dissatisfied with the surrounding reality, they are afraid to express themselves, to be rejected. In the virtual world you can be anyone - strong, successful, beautiful. The longer such a child plays, the more he plunges into the world of fantasy and changes his worldview. The desire to return to reality decreases. As a rule, the environment begins to put even more pressure - conflicts and scandals are a common occurrence in the family of a gambling addict, which leads to an even greater desire to go virtual.

Myths about computer games

There are a number of prejudices associated with computer games. We suggest that you consider them right away so that they do not interfere with us in the future talking about games in a calm manner.

Aggressiveness and Columbine

There is an opinion that games make children more aggressive and mentally unstable. This hypothesis is causing heated debate in both the scientific and gaming communities. However, in all known cases of cruelty on the part of teenagers (Columbine, Kerch), which were initially attributed to games, ultimately there were deep intrapersonal problems in the child .

Moreover, any person who plays the game for a long time gradually gets tired. The child's psyche simply cannot withstand such a long-term load and emotions begin to go off scale. To avoid this, firstly, follow a rest regime, and secondly, review the game in advance before allowing your child to play it.

Computer addiction in a child. Causes. Treatment. Prevention

Content

Computer addiction in a child. Causes. Treatment. Prevention. Not so long ago, it was believed that only teenagers were susceptible to computer addiction. However, alas, today the life of modern society is such that children almost from birth learn to press buttons on the keyboard and operate the mouse. Soon we will probably see strollers for babies with built-in tablets on sale.

Computer addiction in a child

Computer addiction in a child
Most parents themselves introduce their child to a computer, purchasing, for example, a tablet, so that their beloved child does not become a “black sheep” among his peers. In addition, parents, constantly busy with work and their own problems, do not notice how their child becomes seriously dependent on the computer. The reason is that the child does not receive enough attention from his parents. He compensates by sitting at the PC for many hours.

At an early age, children, with the direct participation of their parents, form the habit of entertaining themselves with the help of computer games and graphics programs.

The child is forming a stable connection - he wanted to have fun - he took the phone/iPhone/tablet/laptop.

He is no longer interested in any other classic children's entertainment.

About 30 years ago it was scientifically proven that a child’s brain develops through his hands.

Our body is designed in such a way that in infancy, signals received from the hands, especially from the fingers, stimulate brain development. By replacing finger games with driving a finger along the plane of the monitor, parents close the path to development for their children.

The earlier a child starts using a computer, the higher the chance of becoming addicted.

At the same time, it is important what the child plays, what games. Psychologists say that if children under 7 years old are introduced to a computer, it will be through educational games that teach reading and counting.

It is highly undesirable for young children to play aggressive games or simply wander aimlessly from page to page. It would be better if they never sat down at a computer or tablet at all.

And if you decide to admit him to technology, then do not forget that a computer game cannot replace classic educational and educational games with real objects

• cubes,
• pyramids,
• books
• and pencils.

A child needs touch to understand this world. The computer does not provide such an opportunity.

The term “ computer gaming addiction ” appeared back in 1990. Computer addiction is a disease associated with addiction to all kinds of gambling.

Is computer addiction in children a disease or a social problem?

At first, computer gaming addiction developed in adults. Then computer addiction appeared in children. This is a serious emotional dependence, and sometimes even a mature person is not able to cope with it on his own.

There are several types of computer addiction:

• Gaming , in which a person voraciously plays group games online or individually. The player gives up everything: school, work, family. His whole life moves to the plane of the monitor, where serious passions boil, battles take place and new worlds are conquered.
• Network addiction, in which a person cannot do without so-called Internet communication on forums or social networks. This type of addiction often affects lonely people who are timid in real life and have low self-esteem. It is difficult for them to make acquaintances in “real life”. But online they are in full swing. Anonymity allows them to open up and show their best qualities, to acquire a lot of chatting friends or fans of their work.
• Addiction that manifests itself in the form of endless aimless wandering from site to site. Surfing is similar to a sport where the athlete overcomes wave after wave. This is perhaps the most cunning type of addiction. A person thinks that if he doesn’t play from morning to evening, doesn’t hang out with his classmates, then everything is fine with him. But in reality, he is killing time by constantly absorbing information that will never be useful to him. Looks through all sorts of “interesting facts” and the most beautiful places in the world.

The horror is that computer addiction spares no one, and almost anyone can become its victim,

• and a 25 year old girl,
• and a 50-year-old man.

This world of virtual adventures is so interesting and attractive.

But the worst tragedies happen when children become victims of computer addiction.

The experts' conclusions are not reassuring . Anyone who spends more than two hours a day playing video games is at risk of becoming addicted to a computer game. How to avoid being enslaved by modern technology? Are there ways to prevent or overcome computer illness?

Computer addiction in a child

Who is more addicted to computer games?

• Children of parents who are not at home much, children of wealthy parents or workaholics who are constantly busy.
• The most dependent and, at the same time, undesirable age is 12-15 years.
• Boys. According to statistics, for every dependent teenage girl there are up to 10 boys. This is due to the fact that the crisis of adolescence is more difficult for boys, and there are many times fewer computer games for girls.

The danger of computer addiction

It probably seems to you, dear parents and teachers, that there is nothing worse than drug and alcohol addiction among all its other types. And by and large, you are right. However, computer addiction is no less dangerous.

Computer addiction develops much faster than any other traditional addiction:

• smoking,
• drugs,
• alcohol,
• game for money.

It is clear that, as such, this addiction does not pose a threat to the life and physical health of the addict himself and those around him, but is this really so?

Computer addiction in a child. A few facts

1. On their own, only about 20% of children can outgrow this problem.
2. A child can be at the computer no more than 1 hour a day. Teenager - up to 2-3 hours with breaks.
3. In Finland, people with a diagnosis of computer addiction are not accepted into the army.
4. Spending a long time in front of a monitor can cause visual impairment, posture, decreased immunity, headaches, apathy, irritability, fatigue, and insomnia. An adult feels “squeezed out and empty” after several hours of working at the computer. What can we say about the child?

Signs of computer addiction in children

Signs of computer addiction in children

• The child loses interest in other activities.
• The child tends to spend all his free time on the computer or TV.
• Communication with other children begins to be reduced only to computer games.
• There is a gradual loss of contact with parents.
• The child strives less and less to communicate with others, communication becomes superficial.
• Answers questions formally and avoids confidential conversations.
• He begins to deceive, strives to get what he wants by any means.
• The child hides how much time he actually spent on the computer or TV.
• He reacts nervously to any restrictions associated with a computer, TV, tablet or phone, is very worried, gets angry, is rude, and may cry.
• Loses control over screen time.
• Starts eating near the computer.
• The child starts asking for cartoons or a computer in the morning.
• He comes home from school and the first thing he does is sit down in front of the TK or turn on the computer.
• An incomprehensible emotional upsurge, which abruptly gives way to a bad mood. Taking a closer look, you will understand that all this is connected with virtual successes and failures in the game.
• An inveterate computer geek can be recognized immediately. He is turned inward. Does not notice or ignores external events. Poorly adapts to real life. Even the beauties of nature are perceived with less delight. Because the possibilities of computer graphics are endless. Marvelous, fantastically beautiful landscapes appear on the monitor screen that do not exist in reality.

Computer addiction in a child. How harmful is a computer to your health?

Of course, parents' concerns about their children's health are understandable.

A real risk factor may be eye strain. And yet, communicating with a computer is no more harmful than sitting for a long time in front of a TV screen.

Don't forget about basic prevention

• take breaks from studying
• do eye exercises, visit an ophthalmologist from time to time.

And pay attention to the technical characteristics of your monitor screen (consult before purchase).

Of course, it is necessary to teach the child to control his posture so that postural disorders do not occur. But this is not a specific requirement at all - you need to sit correctly at a regular table. Both a sedentary lifestyle and excess weight are not limited to computer users.

So, when working at a computer, you need to follow the usual hygiene requirements:

• choose comfortable furniture,
• monitor the physical well-being and state of the child’s nervous system,
• avoid overloading.

Physical abnormalities in a patient suffering from computer addiction

• visual impairment,
• decreased immunity,
• headache,
• increased fatigue,
• insomnia,
• back pain,
• carpal tunnel syndrome (wrist pain).

Computer addiction in a child. But what to do if a problem does arise?

No amount of persuasion, persuasion, or threats will have any effect. Most likely, you will cause aggression towards yourself. And the gamer himself will plunge even deeper into the fictional world, since in the real world “no one understands” him.

Addiction to computer games among teenagers is dangerous because the person is in a difficult period of life. The time when he must

• find your place in society,
• begin to build relationships with the opposite sex and peers,

turns out to be missed.

In the future, this will cause psychological problems of a different kind.

The manifestation of symptoms of computer addiction should alert parents and force them to contact specialists who can advise them on how to cope with computer addiction in children.

Computer addiction in a child. Diagnosis of computer addiction

As with most mental illnesses, it is those around them who are the first to notice changes in the patient’s character and behavior. Convincing the gambling addict himself that he is sick is very difficult.

The first step in treating a patient is to become aware of his pathological dependence on the computer. It is very important to set the patient up for a visit to a psychotherapist in a positive way; sometimes some excuse can be used for this in the form

• psychological testing,
• vocational guidance.

An important stage in the successful treatment of computer addiction is to identify the reasons that prompted a person to escape from reality.

Causes of computer addiction

Lack or lack of communication and warm emotional relationships in the family.

When parents (or other close relatives)

• do not give the child the time necessary to express sincere participation in the child’s life on a daily basis,
• are not interested in the state of the mental world,
• they ask little about his thoughts and feelings, about what really worries and worries the child,
• they don't hear him.

Of course, for this reason, not only addiction to computer games and entertainment can develop, but also other types of addiction, as well as various forms of behavioral deviations.

The child has no serious hobbies, interests, hobbies, or attachments not related to the computer.

For example, there once was a 13-year-old teenager

• I wasn’t particularly interested in anything,
• didn't like to read
• walking is also not very good,
• I didn’t really try to help around the house,
• and showed little zeal for studying
• He should watch TV and “don’t care about the ceiling.”

And now, he has a computer! The teenager understands that he can sit at home, without bothering himself with unnecessary stress,

• become a cool bandit (in the game),
• find an interlocutor with whom it is not difficult to stop communicating at any time,
• get (download) an abstract for which you would previously have had to go to the library.

Such a rosy prospect “pins” the child to the monitor screen. Again, it is not a fact that computer addiction will necessarily arise, but... the prerequisite is significant.

The child’s inability to establish desirable contacts with others, lack of friends.

Let's say a child (teenager) is too shy and cannot overcome his shyness. The presence of a visible physical defect and external ugliness repels peers from communicating with him.

Or the child has developed character traits that prevent the establishment of friendly attachments:

• isolation,
• malice,
• excessive greed
• vindictiveness,
• touchiness,
• aggressiveness.

General unluckiness of the child.

This reason is similar to the previous one. For example,

• The child is not doing well at school either,
• I didn’t start a group of guys,
• The relationship with my parents is not great.

If this state of affairs does not suit the child, he may well become dependent on computer games, where he

• main character,
• he is at the pinnacle of success
• he is a winner
• ruler,
• the first destroyer (or creator).

On the Internet, such a child can create an image for himself that is opposite to the real one:

• another name,
• different appearance
• another, more “profitable” self-presentation.

The tendency of teenagers to quickly “absorb” everything new and interesting.

The child’s desire to be “like everyone else” of his peers, to follow their hobbies, to keep up.

Computer addiction in a child. How to protect a child from addiction?

Unfortunately, there is no absolute recipe. There are recommendations, the implementation of which will reduce the likelihood of addiction.

Tips for preventing the development of computer addiction in children and adolescents

• Since the root cause of a child leaving the real world is dissatisfaction with the existing reality, it is necessary first of all to find out what prompted the child to go “to the computer.”
• It is wrong to criticize a child who spends too much time on the computer.
• If you see signs of computer addiction in a child, do not aggravate the situation, take him to a psychotherapist.
• You can try to understand the essence of the game by sharing the child’s interests; this will bring the child closer to his parents and increase the degree of trust in them.
• It is recommended to limit children's access to violent games and films.
• The child's time at the computer must be limited. It is unacceptable for children to play for several hours. Children of primary school age - no more than half an hour, senior school age - no more than an hour a day for games.
• The computer should be installed in a place where you can see what your child is doing. If you periodically enter the room and check, it will look like total control, and in response to your steps, the child will soon learn to quickly “slam” the forbidden pages. And if you can find a place for your computer where you can casually, without attracting attention to yourself, see which page is open, it will be unobtrusive, but at the same time effective.

It is still better for a child not to buy a separate computer. Let him play on his father's. Then at any time you will have a good reason to say “enough” - dad needs a computer.

• When depriving your child of the desired amount of time on the Internet, always offer an alternative. Don't let him suffer from boredom. It needs to be involved in some activities. This is, first of all, housework, hobby groups, and sports clubs. A very effective method is to send him to a computer class, where he will learn to work on a computer for real, and not just chase bunnies across the screen. Let him master Photoshop, let him learn how to create websites, typesetting printing - by the age of 18 he will already have a profession, and he will stop treating the computer solely as a means of entertainment.
• Raise your child's self-esteem. Find your child an activity in which he will be successful and will stand out from his peers. For example, this is some rare sport, fencing, for example. Or a quilling circle. His award certificates, successful crafts, and medals must be displayed on display so that family guests can see his successes.
• Encourage your child's friendships with other children. Invite his friends to visit and let him go to visit friends.
• Parents will have to familiarize themselves with the games that are popular with their children. Children often think that their parents forbid them to play because they do not understand how exciting it is. In this case, the opinion of a parent who knows the game will be much more significant than the opinion of a parent who “hasn’t read it, but I condemn it.”

Is treatment for computer addiction possible? How to get rid of the symptoms of computer addiction?

Of course it is possible. But this is a long and complex process, the success of which depends on many factors. How to treat the symptoms of computer addiction largely depends on the individual characteristics of the person. Treating any addiction is a difficult process that requires the participation of both the addicted person and those around him. Most likely, it will take time for someone suffering from computer gaming addiction to begin to feel the taste of life again. In this respect, computer addiction is similar to drug addiction. It is also important to remember: if the void left in a person’s life after a complete or partial cessation of gaming is not filled, the likelihood of relapse is high. Treatment of computer addiction, like treatment of any other addiction, requires further psychological support for the patient. In severe cases, computer addiction is treated by a psychiatrist.

So, in principle, any child and teenager can become addicted to a computer, but the chances are reduced if:

• there is an atmosphere of friendliness, peace, comfort and trust in the family;
• the child has varied interests and hobbies;
• the child knows how to establish positive relationships with others;
• the child knows how to set at least the smallest goals for himself.

Computer addiction in a child. It is important to know:

It is impossible to abruptly take away or prohibit computer games for a child who has already become involved. This should be done consistently; it is better to prepare together with a psychologist.

You can take various tests online to assess your child's and your computer addiction.

Not all games have a bad effect on the psyche; some contribute to the development of cognitive and moral qualities. Here, what games are chosen becomes crucial.

Prevention of computer game addiction

Prevention of addiction to computer games
The formation of computer addiction in a child is often associated with the characteristics of upbringing and relationships in the family. After all, we are talking about our future, too, how strong our health will be, and how cloudless and happy our old age will be. Therefore, the quality of raising children, based on personal example, mutual respect and trust, must be placed first in the value system.

That's why:

• The personal example of parents is important. If you allow your child to play some time a day, then you yourself should not spend more time on the computer.
• The child must have a passion, a hobby that is not related to the computer.
• Support your child’s communication with peers: their games in the fresh air, common hobbies (without a computer).
• Everything must be planned so that there is no free minute left. These are joint activities, street games, holidays, trips to museums, theaters, parks, travel, communication with interesting interlocutors, etc.
• Use the computer as a reward, for effective parenting, as encouragement.
• It is important to clearly control the games your child plays. You should know what kind of game it is and monitor any deviations in the child's behavior after he has played the game. Irritability, agitation, and insomnia may occur. All this indicates that either the playing time has been exceeded, or the game is not suitable for the child.
• Give preference to educational games and websites. Discuss with your child the games that you think would be more beneficial for him to play.
• Install special network filters and specialized software that allows you to control and limit your child’s communication with the computer.

No mother would allow her child to use drugs, so why are the computer and TV used as a means to keep the child occupied so as not to interfere with the parents in their important matters?

The child’s psyche is formed in interaction with adults. What this interaction will be like is decided by everyone in their place. But

• joint trips to the theaters,
• outdoors with a tent and a fire,
• as well as skis and skates
• and just walks in the fresh air

have not harmed a single person yet.

During such leisure time, children develop respect for their parents. And the meaning of words about the dangers of sitting at a computer for many hours is easier for them to understand.

The child is helped to see all the beauty and diversity of the living world around him and compare it with the virtual one

• Classes in circles,
• sports sections based on interests,
• helping the old and weak,
• selection of good feature and animated films

And the computer can be used for peaceful, educational and creative purposes. The main thing is to captivate the child!

Tags: Computer addiction in a childconsumer

Is my child addicted or not? How to Know When to Worry

Sometimes it can be difficult to determine whether a child is just playing enthusiastically or is already addicted and cannot stop. In this case, you need to watch him for some time.

It is important to pay attention to the following points:

Mood

A child with addiction is often irritable, angry, and has poor control over his emotions, especially when it comes to computer games. However, he quickly calms down when given the opportunity to play. Here it is important to clarify that anger at a mother who snatched a gadget out of her hands is a natural reaction for a healthy teenager . The immature psyche works slowly, therefore, in order to avoid conflict and prepare the child for the end of the game, warn him in advance that time is coming to an end (“5 minutes left”). If after this time the child parted with the toy calmly enough, there is no problem.

Time in game

Gamers often simply cannot limit themselves to this pleasure. They are ready to give up food in favor of playing, go to bed poorly, and skip classes to sit at the computer or gadget. It happens that parents themselves provoke such a situation, initially denying their child the right to play. If the daily schedule has a clear time allotted for entertainment, the child is less worried about the game, he knows for sure that he will get what he wants on time and no one will punish him.

Financial expenses

The child begins to insist on the need to invest money in the game, in improving the technical characteristics of the phone or computer. He doesn't have enough pocket money. Theft from home is possible.

Communication with peers

The interests of a dependent child are greatly narrowed. With friends, all conversations ultimately come down to games. The gambler begins to reduce the number of walks with friends, under various pretexts being left alone with the game.

If your child is easily distracted from the game, calmly parts with the gadget, leads an active social life, and has no problems sleeping - everything is fine. Games are entertainment, one of thousands of possible ones. And it is unreasonable to scold a child for wanting to entertain himself.

1INSIDE OF FIGHT CLUB

I was first introduced to online games in seventh grade, 17 years ago. During recess, I heard kids from high school discussing the new game “Fight Club” - Combats.ru.

This is a browser-based multiplayer game that boils down to two figures on a browser page hitting each other. Moreover, there was no interactivity there. You just use a button to select where you want to strike, and then the results of the battle are written in the chat.

You choose where to hit, and then you wait 5 minutes for the results of the move
. Despite the idiotically elementary interface, the game attracted hundreds of thousands of people, not only youngsters like me, but also adults. Some of these adults shelled out tens of thousands of dollars to buy gaming equipment, gear and equipment.

Did they receive anything of value?

No, their purchases were just pictures on a page on the Internet. And for such a picture, for example, a drawn club, players paid $5,000. Of course, I didn’t have that kind of money, and yet even I once spent about $20 to buy armor and a magic amulet for my character.

A baton worth $5,000.
Quite real dollars. I'm seriously interested in Fight Club. Mainly because my acquaintances played it - older guys whom I respected. I wanted to be equal to them or even surpass them in some way.

As a result, I spent a lot of time on this site. Often during computer science lessons I quickly completed a task and opened the game in the next browser window.

I was terribly upset when Internet access was lost. Then he was still on the phone, using special cards. It was necessary to enter a code in order to have access to the Internet for several hours. I remember I was close to hysterics when it was my turn to move, and the Internet suddenly froze or even ended, and I didn’t know what to do, and I realized that I had lost. And losing by missing a move imposed certain penalties.

Two years in parallel reality

Gradually, I switched from Fight Club to other, more dynamic games like Diablo 2. And in high school, I became acquainted with a game called Ragnarok. This is a multiplayer online RPG with funny cartoon graphics in an anime style. I spent two years there almost without leaving.

I didn’t become a master, but I spent several thousand hours here.
I played for several hours every day. In the morning I woke up early to have time to play for an hour or two before school. After classes, instead of walking in the yard with friends, I rushed home.

On Saturdays, my parents went to the dacha, which meant I could spend half a day alone with the game. True, according to my feelings, these 8 hours flew by like 5 minutes. I was surprised every time I heard my parents’ steps in the corridor and noticed that it was already dark outside the window.

Stages of addiction development

Children do not immediately become avid gamers. The process of addiction formation is very long. First, the child gets acquainted with the game, its rules, the fictional world, tries on new roles, sees whether it suits him or not.

Stage of interest

It can last a very long time, and many teenagers remain on it, trying more and more new applications. There is no manic desire to play here yet, so there is no danger as such. If your child plays for a limited time and easily gives up the gadget in favor of other activities, then you should not worry or argue with him about this. Support him in other hobbies, and you won't be afraid of gaming addiction.

Infatuation Stage

The first call for parents. The world of fantasy interests the teenager more and more; he wants to play a little longer, “five more minutes.” The child is still able to refuse to play, but the desire to return there again arises more and more often. He spends several hours a day playing the game, and his performance declines. It’s good if the application gets boring and disappoints the player at this stage. Or parents will gently intervene in the child’s life and direct his energy in a different direction.

It is important to understand that a ban on the game will only cause greater protest, and the desire to play will intensify. If you miss time at this stage, the addiction will quickly develop into the next stage.

Dependency stage

School, friends, food and sleep interfere with the game. Constant conflicts with family, all thoughts are only about how to improve your results when passing the next test. Here you can observe a full-fledged syndrome, when the game becomes inaccessible to the child.

Aggression, apathy, depressive and suicidal thoughts. All this signals the beginning of serious problems for a teenager. It is no longer possible to turn a blind eye to addiction.

Unfortunately, few parents will be able to cope with the situation on their own, therefore, for the benefit of the whole family, it is necessary to turn to specialists who will help bring the child out of gambling addiction and improve relations with the world so that a relapse does not occur.

Stage of clinical dependence

The child is no longer able to control himself and can sit at the computer or gadget for a day without sleep. Appetite decreases, emotional inhibition is observed, at the same time hysteria and impulsiveness increase. Psychosomatic disorders begin - headaches, stomach upsets, intestinal colic. Some children experience auditory and visual hallucinations. If urgent measures are not taken and specialists are not involved in saving the child, irreversible changes in the brain may begin.

2When you grow up, then do what you want

Of course, my parents did not share my enthusiasm for computer games and tried in every possible way to protect me from them. They persuaded, convinced, and brought forward compelling, from their point of view, arguments... The key thesis sounded like this: “First go to college, and then you can do whatever you want. While you are little, be kind and listen to us.”

My parents never asked what I found so interesting about games. They saw that their son was literally glued to the screen on which something was flickering. And this was enough to start sounding the alarm. Mom and Dad didn’t understand how valuable and important the gameplay itself was for me, they didn’t realize what the game really meant to me.

I, in turn, did not understand that my hobby was a real addiction. And even if I understood, I still wouldn’t be able to give up the games. When you are a teenager and don’t really know how to control yourself, this is not so easy to do.

Suddenly I didn't want to play

In my case, everything ended well. I played enthusiastically until I graduated from school, and then went to college. It would seem that here it is - the long-awaited wonderful time when you can play endlessly and unhindered!

However, my interest in the game suddenly evaporated. This fact surprised me greatly. How so? Why don't I want to play anymore if now there are all the opportunities for this?

Now, having studied the psychology of behavior and the principles of brain function, I understand that interest in the game has disappeared, partly because there is unlimited access to it. The game has ceased to be a scarce value for me.

IMPORTANT: The forbidden fruit is sweet.

The more we limit ourselves to something we desire, the more it attracts us. If there are no prohibitions and restrictions, interest will weaken on its own.

Is it possible to divide games into dangerous and non-dangerous?

In fact, it is impossible to name specific game genres that are 100% addictive. Any game made with sufficient quality, thought out, and color can attract a child’s attention and make him return to the screen again and again.

Unfortunately, game developers are forced to create attractive worlds with secret levels, interesting plots, and bonus systems, otherwise people will stop buying their products. And not all players become addicted.

If you consider the applications individually, you can find for each a set of key skills necessary for successful completion.

At the moment there are many classifications of games. We will consider one of the simplest, directly related to psychological aspects. Games are divided into six genres:

Actions

Aimed at the player's physical skills, success depends on reaction speed, good coordination of vision and motor skills. For these games, the characteristics of the computer or phone on which they are installed are very important, since human actions depend on the quality of drawing details.

A typical task for a player in this genre is to collect all the necessary items, defeat all the “monsters,” and find a way out of the location. Some games involve active teamwork. All this develops the ability to quickly make decisions, think strategically, calculate moves in advance, and also allows you to shed excess aggression. However, at the same time, action games are easily addictive and cause rapid fatigue of the nervous system. It is advisable to limit the time spent in such games in order to give the psyche a chance to rest and the body to stretch not only its fingers.

Simulator

An excellent opportunity for a child to try himself in different situations. For example, there you can manage an airplane or your own restaurant. The main thing to remember here is that the simulator does not provide a 100% representation of reality, but only shows part of life.

Strategies

Games that require high-quality thought processes. As a rule, the player is offered the role of the leader of a state, company or group, and a certain goal to which he must lead the people entrusted to him.

Periodic fascination with this genre develops strategic thinking, the ability to see a situation broadly and from different points of view, make ambiguous decisions, and think for the future. Here breaks are necessary to give the brain a break, otherwise the likelihood of making a mistake increases.

Role-playing games

They give the teenager the opportunity to become someone else. Not “the humble boy Petya,” but “the last descendant of the king of the elves,” for example. A very popular genre among children, especially those who are unsure of themselves.

These games, by the way, are found not only in the virtual world, but also in the real one. People dress up as their favorite characters and gather at various games and festivals to live a more colorful and unusual life.

If you notice that your child has begun to become heavily immersed in role-playing games, look at how eventful his real life is. Perhaps he lacks strong positive impressions. Since each character in the game has a different set of special characteristics, pay attention to what features your child chooses. Help him develop these qualities in real life.

Adventures (quest)

A light genre where the player, in the form of a character, goes through a certain journey, overcomes obstacles, and solves problems. Very often, such games are based on the plots of books and films. Reaction speed and strategic thinking are not important here - observation and logic are much more important. The player is offered puzzles, solving which he gets the opportunity to move on. These games can be played by the whole family. They are fun and useful. The main thing is to take a break on time.

Puzzles

Games without a special plot. The levels are built on the same rules and consist of solving logical problems with a gradual increase in complexity. The player requires concentration, logical thinking, a little strategy and intuition. In moderate doses, puzzles help develop a child's mental abilities.

Thus, there are no absolutely bad or absolutely good games - everything is good in moderation and on time. The main rule for both children and adults is to play for fun and at a strictly designated time. The risk of addiction is greatly reduced if a person leads an active, busy life, and the game acts as a pleasant seasoning to it.

5Why do children watch others play?

Perhaps you have noticed that your child does not play himself, but watches others play. This video format is called “let's play.” Let's play channels on YouTube are wildly popular among teenagers. As a rule, in such videos, experienced gamers show how to pass difficult game levels and comment on what is happening, often very emotionally and with a lot of jokes.

Am I a spectator watching or a sniper shooting from a rifle?

Why do children love the Let's Play format so much?

The reason is that they essentially get the opportunity to be a person they respect, to touch them. Let's say there is a player who is brilliant at fighting monsters, has a great sense of humor, and makes live broadcasts on YouTube. While the child watches the video, he temporarily becomes this player.

At first glance, this activity seems pointless to parents, but if you look at it, children have good reasons for spending time on Let’s Play. You should not devalue any process if you do not understand what its essence and advantages are.

IMPORTANT: If you don’t understand, don’t devalue it.

If you criticize and devalue online games that your child is interested in, you will not be able to become a close friend to him. Your task is not to forbid your child something or call his hobbies nonsense, but to be on his side and understand his motives and needs.

Treatment of gambling addiction

Treatment for gambling addiction usually does not include taking medications, with the exception of some concomitant diseases (anxiety disorders, depression, fears). Parents, first of all, need to contact a child or family psychologist. The specialist will help to competently establish relationships within the family so that communication between parents and child proceeds in a calm atmosphere. When there is a trusting relationship in the family, children do not need to “escape” into virtual reality.

If for some reason you cannot contact a psychologist, you should review your relationship with the child. Often parents unknowingly provoke their child to “escape.” For example, excessive control and increased criticism create an insecure person who finds it easier to solve problems in a game, where you can save and start over, than in real life, where any wrong step will result in punishment. Families where the child’s feelings and desires are respected, where one can express one’s opinion and express oneself, are less likely to encounter the problem of addiction to anything.

Learn more about raising healthy and happy children using the positive parenting system!

Check your requirements for the child - are they all justified and understandable to the child, does he agree with them? How often do you say “last” and is it always justified? Children whose independence is encouraged and initiative is supported are more active and self-confident. They don't need to go into a fantasy world to succeed.

In parallel with establishing relationships with the child, you need to gradually return him to the daily routine. There is no need to drastically reduce the time he spends in the game. However, it is necessary to gradually reduce it and replace the game with other active entertainment. Simply taking a gadget away from a child without offering an alternative will not solve the problem.

To implement new rules:

1. Talk to your child, do not blame or insult him, share your concerns with him, tell him that you are upset by his addiction to games.
2. Be sure to talk about why it is so important to temporarily limit games (“to maintain health”, “to improve your studies”).
3. Create a daily routine with your child and give him the opportunity to choose his own time to play.
4. Five minutes before the end of the game time, remind them that it is coming to an end. Do not be fooled by persuasion and threats, do not enter into negotiations and bargaining.
5. To be able to remotely track the amount of time spent in the game, you can use a special application. But without the child’s consent, it should not be installed. This can lead to a loss of trust.
6. Don't shout, be calm even if a conflict breaks out. Be restrained and consistent in your actions.
7. Fill the time freed up from games with new hobbies; don’t be afraid to ask what your child wants and help him in his endeavors.

Online helpers to combat gaming addiction

There are a number of programs on the market for parental control applications that allow you to track children’s activity on gadgets - time spent online and in games, search queries and content viewed.

For example, with the consent of the child, you can install the kids360 application, which not only has the function of limiting work with the gadget by time, but also filters unwanted content that the child can read. And the “Where are my children” application will allow, in addition to viewing application usage statistics, to check the real location of the child.

The use of such programs will help not only track the success of rehabilitation of an addicted gambler, but also prevent the onset of gambling addiction in the early stages in healthy children.

The history of Internet addiction

For the first time, researcher Kimberly Young began studying the history of Internet addiction and its treatment. Under her leadership, a questionnaire diagnosing this mental disorder was compiled in 1994. It was published on the University of Pittsburgh website. The study found that 396 out of 496 users had signs and symptoms of internet addiction. The results of the study were published at the 105th and 104th Congresses of the Psychological Association of America.

According to Kimberly Young, the causes of Internet addiction include the following elements:

1. Emotional attachment. Involves liberation from unpleasant emotions and experiences.
2. Features of escapism. Characterized by low self-esteem, feelings of insecurity and a tendency to depression.
3. Search for novelty, desire to diversify your life.
4. An opportunity to feel like an expert in the field of computer technology.
5. The desire to constantly stimulate your senses.

To refer to computer addiction in people, Ivan Goldberg proposed to introduce the term Internet Addiction Disorder in 1995. In addition, he introduced criteria by which the problem could be identified.

Researchers D. Parsons and A. Hall in 2001 introduced the concept of Internet addictive behavior into general use. It characterized impairment of affective, cognitive and behavioral functions due to excessive Internet use. Scientists called this phenomenon a “benign” disorder. It was believed that it acts as a kind of compensation for shortcomings in behavior in reality.

G. Schafer argued that Internet addiction, by definition, is not a pathology. It is the result of a person's other compulsive disorders and causes. J. Grohola did not agree with this opinion. He believed that computer addiction is a natural stage in a person’s mastery of the world of information technology.

Currently, addiction to the telephone and the Internet is observed even among preschool children. Many of them have personal devices and are confident PC users. Internet addiction among teenagers is often a consequence of lack of fulfillment among friends. It is most susceptible to adults and shy children with low self-esteem or certain communication problems.

Prevention

However, the best way to deal with any addiction is not to take things to extremes. So it is with gaming addictions. If a child is actively developing, full of creative energy, participates in sports events, communicates a lot with peers, feels support from loved ones, he simply has no time and no need to hide in the world of games. Therefore, support your children, talk to them, help them fill their lives with meaning, cultivate self-confidence in them, because parents are the main people in the life of any child.