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Game Addiction
In recent years,
there have been complaints by parents that their child is suffering
from video game addiction. They see their child playing games
like World of War Craft for hours on end, while their school
work and offline social life suffer. Video game addiction has
been compared to serious compulsions such as alcoholism, and
is even believed to have been responsible for suicides (Tanner,
2007). With the diagnosis of this new addiction on the rise,
is it wise for schools to incorporate video games in the classroom?
Discussion:
The following article and video discuss the causes and symptoms
of internet addiction. After reading the article, discuss the
questions below.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/19354827/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18joS1IP2oc
(interviews with gamers and those who were formally addicted)
- What are the symptoms/ warning signs of video game addiction?
- What should you do if you notice a child exhibiting the warning
signs? Does your school have a policy regarding video game addiction?
- How might a student's video game addiction interfere with your
classroom?
- Do you think it is appropriate for schools to include (commercial
and/or educational) video games in the classroom if it can help
lead some students to compulsive behaviors?
- Do you think video game addiction is a legitimate disorder
or is it simply that these addicts lack adequate adult supervision?
Guidelines:
- Monitor student behavior. Watch for warning signs such as
declining grades, belligerence, depression, etc.
- If you suspect a child is suffering from video game addiction,
consult your school counselor.
- Communicate with and educate parents on the hazards of playing
video games for long periods of time. Advise them to set limits
on how long a child can play and to encourage to include other
activities in the child's life (e.g., sports, music, clubs,
etc.). Let them know that it is important to seek outside, professional
help (i.e., contact a therapist who deals with video game addiction).
References
- Tanner, L. (2007, June 22). Is video-game addiction a mental
disorder? MSNBC. Retrieved
from: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/19354827/
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