Video Game Addiction

You should be concerned if your child:

• Repeatedly breaks family rules about when and how much game playing is allowed.
• Withdraws from friends and activities to spend time playing.
• Sneaks and lies about game playing.
• Neglects school work and other responsibilities.
• Throws temper tantrums when limits are imposed.

Some parent-child arguments about video and computer games are part of 21^st century America.  So do not panic if you have had your share of those types of arguments.  On the other hand, do not ignore signs of compulsive playing.

Tips to make sure computer and video game playing remains a positive part of your children’s lives:

• Set clear ground rules about when, where, how much, and what kind of game playing is allowed.
• Limit game playing time.
• Require that homework and other chores be completed first.
• Keep video and computer games out of children’s bedrooms.
• If your child refuses to cooperate, restrict access for a period of time.
• If nothing else works, go cold turkey. Get rid of the games.

Suggested Readings

David Walsh, Ph.D. is the president and founder of the National Institute on Media and the Family. He has written nine books including the national best sellers Why Do They Act That Way? A Survival Guide to the Adolescent Brain for You and Your Teen (Free Press, 2004) and No. Why Kids-of All Ages-Need to Hear It and Ways Parents Can Say It (Free Press, 2007).