Parents: Is Your Child Addicted to Video Games?
Children who are addicted to video games like Fortnite, Minecraft, and Roblox may fall behind in academics, exhibit violent behavior towards others, or have changes in social interactions. Read on to discover why these behaviors happen, who may be to blame, and what you can do for your child’s well-being if he or she struggles with these symptoms from video game addiction.
Video games are an integral part of childhood for millions of kids. Whether playing solo, or against other family members, friends, or neighbors, people have bonded over the thrill and the competition of video games for decades. What started out as very basic computer games, video games are more accessible than ever and have become engrained in American culture.
In recent years, however, there has been a noticeable shift in the way video games affect children. Kids who play video games like Roblox, Fortnite, or Minecraft excessively may become addicted to them due to a surge in the neurotransmitter in the brain associated with reward, known as dopamine. This rush and release of dopamine can become addicting, creating a strong desire to seek out that feeling repeatedly.
Recently, lawsuits have been filed against certain video game makers, claiming that they have intentionally designed and developed these games to be addictive, especially for minors. Parents are taking action against companies like Roblox Corp., Epic Games, and Microsoft/Mojang Studios, seeking compensation for the impacts the games have had on their child’s health and well-being.
What is Video Game Addiction?
Video game addiction falls into the category of internet gaming disorders (IGDs), and is defined as “the steady and repetitive use of the Internet to play games frequently with different gamers, potentially leading to negative consequences in many aspects of life.” According to the American Psychiatric Association, in order for someone to be addicted to gaming, it must cause “significant impairment or distress” in several aspects of their life.
These impairments can take many shapes and forms, including a person’s mental health, social interactions, eating habits, academic performance, and more. Parents of children who are addicted to video games may be able to take action against the makers of these games.
Has your child experienced at least one or more of the following symptoms lasting more than 12 months? If yes, your child may be addicted to video games:
- Change in eating patterns due to gaming
- Deceiving family members or others
- Decline in academic performance
- Diminished social interaction with family or friends
- Gamer’s rage (anger prompted by losing or withdrawal from game)
- Loss of interest in previous hobbies and entertainment
- Withdrawal symptoms if game is taken away
- Has displayed violent behavior and/or attempted suicide
Reach out to us today if your child is between the ages of 5 and 16 and has exhibited any of these symptoms after playing Roblox, Fortnite, or Minecraft for more than 70 hours over a 5-week period. See below for lawsuit eligibility, and contact us if you have any questions. Your call is confidential, and free of charge.
Want to Know if You are Eligible?
Is your child addicted to Roblox, Fortnite, or Minecraft? You may be eligible to seek compensation. Contact us to confidentially discuss your child’s unique situation to see if you qualify. Your consultation is always free.
