Video game addiction, also known as Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD), is a growing concern in today’s digital age. It is characterized by an inability to control gaming habits, leading to significant negative impacts on an individual’s personal, social, and professional life. But what is video game addiction, exactly, and do individuals suffering from it have legal options?
All About Video Game Addiction
The World Health Organization (WHO) officially recognized gaming disorder as a mental health condition in 2018. It is “defined in the 11th Revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) as a pattern of gaming behavior (‘digital-gaming’ or ‘video-gaming’) characterized by impaired control over gaming, increasing priority given to gaming over other activities to the extent that gaming takes precedence over other interests and daily activities, and continuation or escalation of gaming despite the occurrence of negative consequences.”
According to the Cleveland Clinic, “Video game addiction (internet gaming disorder) is characterized by severely reduced control over gaming habits, resulting in negative impacts on daily functioning, including personal, social, educational and occupational responsibilities.”
Signs and Symptoms
Some common signs of video game addiction include:
- Preoccupation with gaming, even when not playing.
- Withdrawal symptoms like irritability, sadness, or anxiety when unable to play.
- Loss of interest in hobbies or activities once enjoyed.
- Continued gaming despite negative consequences, such as poor academic performance, strained relationships, or health issues.
- The need to spend more and more time playing video games to get the same degree of enjoyment.
- Lying to loved ones about the amount of time spent playing video games.
- Using video games to ease negative moods.
- …and more
Causes of Video Game Addiction
The specific causes behind video game addiction or IGD are being investigated.
“Researchers think the process of playing and winning video games may trigger a release of dopamine,” the Cleveland Clinic notes.
“Dopamine is a brain chemical (neurotransmitter) that plays a key role in several bodily functions, including pleasurable reward and motivation. Dopamine is the same neurotransmitter involved in other use disorders, including gambling disorder and substance use disorder. Recent neurological research shows similarities in the brains of people with video game addiction and substance use disorders.”
Video Game Addiction Litigation
Individuals impacted by video game addiction, as well as families of adolescents harmed by internet gaming disorder, are increasingly filing lawsuits against video game manufacturers and developers. The aim is to hold these companies accountable and seek justice for those affected. Phillips Law Group is here to assist in pursuing these claims.
Our firm understands the far-reaching consequences of addiction and our team is here to help families navigate the legal and emotional challenges that may arise from video game addiction. You or your loved one may be eligible to join a lawsuit to seek accountability from video game manufacturers.
Please contact us today to learn more about your rights and to discuss your legal options. Call 602-222-2222 now.
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