What is internet gaming disorder a.k.a. video game addiction?

What is internet gaming disorder (IGD) a.k.a. video game addiction?

Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD), often referred to as video game addiction, is a condition characterized by excessive and compulsive use of video games, often to the detriment of an individual's mental health, physical health, social life, and daily responsibilities. Internet Gaming Disorder was first introduced by the American Psychiatric Association in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders in 2013, reflecting growing concerns about problematic gaming behaviors.

Key Features of Internet Gaming Disorder:

1.     Preoccupation with Gaming:

o    The individual becomes preoccupied with video games, thinking about them constantly, even when not playing. This preoccupation can interfere with daily life, work, or academic responsibilities.

2.     Loss of Control:

o    Despite negative consequences (e.g., poor academic performance, strained relationships, health issues), individuals find it difficult to reduce or stop gaming. They often play for longer periods than intended and cannot control the urge to play.

3.     Withdrawal Symptoms:

o    When unable to play, individuals may experience withdrawal symptoms similar to other behavioral addictions. These can include irritability, anxiety, depression, and restlessness.

4.     Tolerance:

o    Similar to substance addiction, people with IGD may develop a tolerance to gaming. Overtime, they need to spend increasing amounts of time playing games to achieve the same level of satisfaction or excitement.

5.     Neglect of Daily Activities:

o    People with IGD may begin to neglect important responsibilities and daily activities, such as schoolwork, job duties, social interactions, and self-care. Priorities shift toward gaming, often at the expense of relationships, physical health, and overall well-being.

6.     Continued Use Despite Negative Consequences:

o    Even when gaming causes significant problems—such as poor performance at school or work, conflict with family or friends, or financial issues—the individual continues to play.

7.     Escaping Reality:

o    Many people with gaming addiction use video games as a way to escape real-life problems, stress, or negative emotions. Gaming becomes a coping mechanism, but over time, it exacerbates these issues by causing additional challenges in daily life.

8.     Interference with Social and Occupational Functioning:

o    Overtime, excessive gaming leads to social isolation, as the individual may avoid real-world interactions to focus on the virtual world. It can also lead to problems with school, work, or relationships due to the time and energy invested in gaming.

Internet Gaming Disorder is a growing concern, especially as video games become more immersive and easily accessible. In recent years, lawsuits against the gaming industry related to addiction and injury have gained more attention, reflecting concerns over the health impacts of prolonged gaming. Below are key examples and trends in legal action against gaming companies:

1. Addiction Lawsuits

·        Parents claim their children became severely dependent on the game, leading to issues in their daily lives such as missing school, social withdrawal, and sleep deprivation.

2. Physical Injury Lawsuits

·        Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSIs): There have been lawsuits related to repetitive strain injuries, such as arpal unne stemming from extended gaming sessions. Some employees within the gaming industry, especially testers and developers, have filed workers' compensation claims due to such injuries. Gamers, including those involved in esports, have also reported these conditions.

·        VR-Related Injuries: Virtual reality (VR)gaming has sparked lawsuits involving injuries. Users have claimed they suffered injuries from falls, collisions with objects, or other accidents while immersed in VR games. Some plaintiffs have argued that gaming companies failed to provide adequate warnings about the risks of using their VR systems.

3. Mental Health and Negligence Claims

·        Parental Lawsuits Over Excessive Playtime: Several lawsuits have been filed by parents against game developers, alleging that companies failed to warn about the dangers of gaming addiction, particularly for minors.

·        Mental Health Lawsuits Against Esports Companies: There have been cases involving professional gamers, particularly in the esports arena, where players have sued teams or organizations over the effects of long hours, inadequate rest, and mental health neglect. These cases often claim a lack of support for issues such as burnout, anxiety, or depression, which are exacerbated by the demands of competitive gaming.

4. Legal Actions Over Deceptive Practices

·        Lawsuits Over False Advertising: Some lawsuits have been aimed at game developers for allegedly misrepresenting the nature of their games. For example, players may claim that the company promised certain features or experiences that were never delivered, leading to dissatisfaction or increased gameplay time in pursuit of these promises.

Industry Response:

·        Game Companies’ Defense: In many cases, gaming companies defend themselves by stating that video games are forms of entertainment, and players have the responsibility to manage their own gaming habits.

·        Changes in Game Design: As a result of increased scrutiny, some game companies have started implementing changes to address these issues. This includes parental controls, screen time limits, and more transparent information regarding in-game purchases. Some companies have also begun including addiction warnings and offering support for players who may be struggling with gaming-related issues.

The gaming industry faces a growing number of legal challenges related to addiction, injuries, and the psychological effects of prolonged play. As these lawsuits become more frequent, regulatory changes and stricter design practices may become more common to prevent further legal liabilities. Wellness for esports and gamers is real. As an Esports Health Performance Institute Certified Provider, I encourage gaming brands to consider developing wellness strategies to mitigate the rise of lawsuits, to promote the health and wellness of their consumers and the gaming world. These strategies must be holistic to include the mental and physical health of gamers. Dr. Nekita Sullivan is a health and wellness expert providing wellness services that improve physical and mental health. She is also an old school gamer. #esports#gamers#gamerswellness#gamershealth#gamingbrands#gamingmanufacturers#esports#videogamingaddiction#internetgamingdisorder#yogatherapybar#wellnessforgamers

Your Master Wellness Program Designer,
Dr. Nekita Sullivan

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