Internet compulsion refers to participating in internet-based activities such as social media, researching information online, and gaming to the extent that it begins to have a negative impact on important areas of your life such as personal relationships, work, or school. Gaming dependence is a sub class that falls under the umbrella of internet compulsion. Gaming dependence is thought to be present when gaming is prioritized over other interests and responsibilities.
Gaming Dependence
Top Priority
If you’re dealing with gaming dependence, you may find that gaming has become the only interest or hobby in your life. You may find yourself thinking about video games all the time, and feel pressured to spend all your free time gaming.
Lack of Sleep
Because of your dependence, you may find yourself sacrificing sleep in order to spend more time gaming. This could include staying up later and later, or not sleeping at in favour of playing video games.
Low Self-Esteem
You may find that you develop low self-esteem because of your dependence. This can cause you to game even more frequently as a coping mechanism.
What Are Symptoms of Gaming Dependence?
Looking at symptoms on the internet can be alarming. Please keep in mind that symptoms are viewed as one part of a broad picture involving many factors - the presence or absence of the listed symptoms alone is not enough to diagnose a gaming dependence.
Cognitive Symptoms
Shortened attention span
Difficulty focusing
Need for constant stimulation
Need for instant gratification
Emotional Symptoms
Increased loneliness
Difficulty regulating emotions
Using gaming as a coping strategy for negative emotions
Withdrawal symptoms such as irritability and sadness when they stop gaming
Behavioural Symptoms
Playing games for longer periods of time to achieve the same results
Unable to cut down on gaming or stop gaming, even when attempting to do so
Hiding or lying about how much time they spend gaming
Decreased performance at work or school
Continuing to engage in gaming at the same level, even when it's negatively impacting their life
Treatment for Gaming Dependence
There are still ongoing conversations in the psychological community regarding whether excessive gaming can truly be classified as a compulsion. However, if time spent gaming is having a negative impact on your life a therapist can help you develop a plan to reduce or abstain from gaming and help you develop alternative coping skills.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Cognitive behavioural therapy teaches clients to recognize how their thoughts impact their feelings and behaviours and to help them evaluate their thoughts to ensure they are in line with the facts of a situation.
Therapists Who Can Help
Check out our experienced team of therapists specializing in compulsion or dependence and find the perfect fit for you.
Video Game Replacement Activities
Game Quitters offers a free list of over 70 different hobbies that you can replace gaming with and will help to keep you mentally engaged.
Video Game Dependence
Learn more about the debate over gaming dependence and internet compulsion from the writers at Psychology Today.
Gaming Disorders
Gain a more in-depth understanding about the symptoms, causes of, and treatment for gaming dependence.
