Additional Resources:

• Internet Gaming Disorder Criteria by World Health Organization
• South Korea's Public Health Crisis
• Clinical Criteria Quiz for Video Game Addiction

Video Summary:

The first question most parents ask me is, "Is my kid addicted to video games?"

"Is this an addiction?"

They might find that there's a problem concerning their child.

For example, the child's grades might be slipping or the child is becoming more isolated. They might show moodiness.

But is this actually an addiction?

There's a lot of debate on this topic.

Some experts believe that it is an addiction although some believe that while it is an addiction, it's not like an alcohol addiction or opiate addiction.

To me, it doesn't matter.

When does Gaming Become a Problem?

At the end of the day, if it's causing a problem, it IS a problem.

Your child might have a problem if you're noticing changes to their:

• Mood
• Behavior
• Grades (slipping)
• Social life (becoming isolated)

If you notice negative changes to their demeanor, there is most likely a problem.

When video games cause issues within your household or pose risks for your child's future, there is a problem.

It's irrelevant to label it an addiction or not.

Putting the Academics Aside

There are psychiatrists with the World Health Organization and American Psychiatric Association who may or may not agree that your child has an addiction.

The important thing is: What is happening to your child?

• Are you okay with the changes in your child?
• Do you believe there is a problem?
• Does something need to change?

Personally, I don't care what the experts think. I care about what the parent thinks. I care about what is happening inside your child's life.

It doesn't matter whether it's a "real" addiction. However, it is important to note that there are changes to your child's brain when they play video games.

These changes are why I do believe that there is a form of addiction at play.

It's Your Decision

While research and expert opinion is great, the decision ultimately becomes yours.

You have to be the one that sits down and sees the trajectory your child is going in.

I say "child," but this can include your 23-year-old adult child, also known as the "man child." We'll get more into that in the bonus section, if it applies to you.

Sit down and consider if they are moving in the direction they should be going in.

• Are there problems in school?
• Are they unable to get a job?
• Did they drop out of a sports team?
• Are they throwing tantrums?
• Are they progressively more disrespectful?

I have never met your kid, so this decision is completely in your hands.

If you believe there is a problem, then there is a problem.