Video Game Addiction and It's Effects

Most parents allow their children to play video games excessively. Some parents allow it to keep their child entertained, which allows them to get things done in their daily routine. Parents do not think it is harmful to allow their children to play video game excessively, although it is. Video game addiction has it's down falls. During the school months most children who have video games will come home from school and play their games till bedtime. During summer vacation their child will play their video games for hours on end not getting any extra curricular activity. Excessive video game playing may have the same effect as a drug addiction, or symptoms. This is just a few ideas of what it is actually doing to your child.

Brain

When children's gaming becomes excessive it triggers the release of dopamine, a chemical in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is associated with pleasurable sensations, neurotransmitter has been linked to addiction.

Heart

Children who play violent video games are at higher risk of heart problems. These children experience higher heart rate variability. Higher HRV can cause many symptoms from seizures to stress and may cause loss of bladder control. When a child is getting frustrated while playing video games, getting stressed out, or angry, it has it's effects on the heart.

Stress

Stress can be harmful to the body for anyone. When children are playing video games and not advancing in the game, they become stressed out and angry. When these emotions are going on through out the day it can take it's toll on the body and organs.

Muscle

Excessive gaming may cause joint and muscle problems, resulting in carpal tunnel syndrome. When using the wrist and thumbs a lot during gaming this may cause carpal tunnel in the wrist later in life. The reason for carpal tunnel is constant repetitive motion. Loss of muscle mass may be another concern. Children need daily exercise, this form of exercise can be running outside to playing ball.

Obesity

When a child is playing video games excessively there is no exercise involved, leading to obesity. Some children will sit and play video games while they are eating. Children need exercise to grow and stay healthy.

Prevention

Parents should put a time limit on their child's gaming time. They should get their child involved in other activities he or she may be interested in. There are other activities children could enjoy just as much, although most have not experience different activities to know what they would enjoy. Introduce your child to different activities and see what they may enjoy and add that to your child's routine.