Understanding Video Game Addiction in Children

With an ever-growing number of platforms—smartphones, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch—children can easily spend hours gaming. While video games can provide entertainment, mental stimulation, and even educational benefits within school curriculums [1, 2], excessive gaming may lead to problematic behaviours.

In 2016, 98% of Australian households with children had video games available [1]. As concerns around gaming addiction increased, Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) was proposed for inclusion in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) in 2013 [3], and it now appears in the substance-related and addictive disorders section.

Video Games as an Addiction

Recent research shows that Internet Gaming Disorder resembles other addictive disorders [4]. Similarities include activation of the brain’s dopamine reward system, which reinforces behaviours that bring pleasure [2, 4].

Dopamine motivates us to repeat enjoyable activities, such as eating or socialising [2]. Gaming can provide a sense of achievement, and individuals with IGD may require more time playing to achieve the same feeling of reward [5]. Over time, this pattern can develop into an addiction.

Who Is at Risk?

Research indicates that males aged 12–20 represent the most common demographic diagnosed with IGD [3]. Additionally, children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) may face higher risk, as impulsivity correlates with more severe gaming addiction [6].

Other Risk Factors

Children may be more prone to gaming addiction if they:

• Struggle with decision-making, finding it difficult to allocate time appropriately

• Have poor social skills, making real-life connections challenging

• Find it difficult to regulate emotions, using gaming as a distraction or escape [7]

Eight Signs of Gaming Addiction in Children

Parents can watch for the following warning signs:

1. Preoccupation with video games
   Children with IGD may play 8–10 hours per day and up to 30 hours per week [3].

2. Giving up other hobbies or responsibilities
   Missing homework, sports, or social activities may indicate gaming is taking priority.

3. Needing more gaming time to feel satisfied
   Similar to substance tolerance, children may need to spend increasing amounts of time gaming to feel rewarded.

4. Becoming emotional when gaming is removed
   Hostility, anxiety, or sadness when gaming stops can signal withdrawal.

5. Inability to reduce gaming time
   Even when aware of negative impacts, the child may struggle to limit gaming.

6. Continuing despite problems
   Ongoing gaming can persist despite sleep disruption, mood changes, or family conflict.

7. Deceiving family members
   Hiding the amount of time spent gaming is a common warning sign.

8. Using games to relieve negative moods
   Gaming becomes a coping mechanism, reinforcing dependence.

CBT Treatment for Gaming Addiction

Emerging research indicates that cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) can effectively help adolescents with Internet Gaming Disorder [8].

CBT programs typically include:

• Education on gaming benefits and risks for the child and family

• Strategies to manage cravings and urges

• Cognitive restructuring to regain control over behaviours

• Boosting self-esteem and emotional regulation

• Enhancing communication skills and assertiveness

• Helping families set boundaries and limits

• Relapse prevention strategies [9]

Getting Help

If you notice several warning signs in your child, it may be time to consult a child psychologist. Early intervention helps prevent long-term impacts on education, social skills, and mental health.

At CBT Professionals on the Gold Coast, our team offers specialised support for children struggling with gaming addiction. Download our Referral Fact Sheet and take it to your GP to discuss an appropriate referral pathway.

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes and does not replace advice from a doctor or registered health professional. Consult your registered practitioner for diagnosis or treatment.

Written by: CBT Professionals Psychologists Madeline Stainsby and Dr Karen Gallaty, Gold Coast. Offices in Coomera and Nerang. Services for adults, children, couples, and families. Call 5551 0251 to book an appointment.

References:

1. Bond University, Digital Australia Report. 2016.

2. Palaus, M., et al., Neural basis of video gaming: A systematic review. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, 2017. 11: p. 248.

3. American Psychiatric Association, DSM-5®. 2013.

4. Vaccaro, A.G., & Potenza, M.N., Diagnostic considerations regarding gaming disorder. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 2019. 10: p. 405.

5. Dong, G., & Potenza, M.N., Cognitive-behavioral model of Internet gaming disorder. Journal of Psychiatric Research, 2014. 58: p. 7–11.

6. Mathews, C.L., et al., Video game addiction and ADHD symptomatology. Am J Drug Alcohol Abuse, 2019. 45(1): p. 67–76.

7. Paulus, F.W., et al., Internet gaming disorder in children and adolescents. Dev Med Child Neurol, 2018. 60(7): p. 645–659.

8. Wölfling, K., et al., Efficacy of short-term treatment of internet and computer game addiction. JAMA Psychiatry, 2019.

9. Torres-Rodríguez, A., Griffiths, M.D., & Carbonell, X., The PIPATIC Program for Internet Gaming Disorder. Int J Ment Health Addiction, 2018. 16(4): p. 1000–1015.