Videogaming not addictive... for now, doctors say
Five years' research needed to be sure
Think you're addicted to computer games? Think again, US addiction specialists have said. More research is needed before they will classify excessive gaming as a mental illness, the American Medical Association (AMA) was told this weekend.
The judgement follows a proposal that the playing of computer games for long periods of time be added to US doctors' bible of mind illnesses, the American Diagnostic and Statistic Manual of Mental Disorders, Reuters reports.
But at the annual AMA congress, the proposers suggested the issue be investigated over the next five years with a view to subsequently decided whether it be included in the 2012 edition of the Manual.
Some doctors claimed excessive gaming was indeed akin to alcohol, drug and other addictions in that the sufferers find themselves unable to stop playing and deny that that's the case. Others rejected that claim, stating playing games for long periods is nothing like substance abuse.
And while it's fair to point out that the more time spent playing games, the less time there is for other activities, at what point does that become a problem for the player and for wider society?
COMMENTS
Re: Re: More addictive than crack cocaine
Hi Jonathan. Interesting, yet please consider the following:
I have an addictive personality, I get addicted to things easily and therefore I am at risk of things that are addictive (and I do know the difference between an addiction and a habit). Because of this, and for whatever underlying reason, I am better qualified to tell when something is addictive and when it's not. I have to take great steps these days to avoid anything that could be addictive and videogames are one of the things that I have to avoid. You may be right in your belief that addiction is a symptom of deeper problems, however, it doesn't change the fact that people, including myself, get addicted.
Hmmm
I notice they didn't say whether internet porn was addictive, methinks they're changing the subject.
Re: More addictive than crack cocaine
Considering your past history of addiction, do you not think that perhaps there is another underlying cause to being addicted to video games? Perhaps I misread your intentions... if so, I do apologize.
My own belief is that the gaming "addiction" is just a symptom of deeper problems. Anyone ever heard of Aspergers? Unfortunately, thanks to Jackass Thompson and his ilk we'll probably see this pushed as far as it can go until my taxes are supporting game addiction clinics.
To "Hmmm obviously not enough money in it yet":
So, based on 1 guy supporting the supposed "addiction", you've determined that this is substantial evidence to proclaim playing to many games as addictive? With that reasoning should we seek help for anyone in love based on Lisa Nowak's escapades?
Adverse physical effects of gaming?
Interesting to see the influence of gaming on RSI/joint issues, and eyesight, never mind the obvious problems of not being outside and doing something physical (which lots of other things could be found guilty of causing).
Alcoholics could stumble around blindly, not able to control their limbs and...so could gamers :D
*clicks his wrist*
Hmmm obviously not enough money in it yet
Addiction is generally defined as the need/compulsion to do something despite the knowledge of the harm that indulging in the act will do to you. Now we have all seen examples on the Reg of people killing themselves by not paying attention to their bodily needs. Instead htey go for the next level Boss.
Probably the insurance companies in the States have decided that it is BS and the docs aint gonna get any cash for such a diagnosis. Or am I just cynical.
