Are you worried that your child may have a Video Addiction? CanAm Interventions facilitates interventions for Internet & video gaming addictions, which have become a sign of the times since the use of computers, Internet, and video games are part our generation.
- Some of the behaviors that are attached with video gaming and Internet addictions are the need to relieve emotions stress, frustration, and boredom, irritability, and mood changes. If you have a child, young adult and or an adult that may be experiencing a problem with Internet and /or video gaming, it is important to seek help and support by using intervention support, treatment services and professional support for your family.
What is Internet and video gaming addiction? It is described as an impulsive control disorder that can display the same characteristic of substance abuse/use (without the use of a substance). Also, it falls into the same category as pathological gambling addiction based on the excessive need and use of computer games, Internet and/or video games.
- Recent research has found that nearly one in 10 young adults gamers (8 to18 years old) can be classified as addicted to Internet games and or video gaming.
“Efforts and courage are not enough without purpose and direction.” – JFK
CanAm Interventions research and personal theories show that Internet, video gaming addiction can have the same correlations/reactions as Reactive Attachment Disorders (RAD).
- RAD, as defined by Mayo Clinic describes Reactive Attachment Disorder is a rare but serious condition in which an infant or a young child does not establish attachments with their parents or caregivers. The needs of a child for comfort, affection, nurturing and the need for love and connection are not met. Some parents reading this may ponder, reflecting on the memories of caring for their child, and ask themselves, “Where did I go wrong?” and believe they did everything to make sure that they were completely attached to their child.
CanAm Interventions theories are that RAD can in fact be historically passed on to their children much like being predisposed to addiction.
- Addiction to Internet and video gaming can in fact take the place of human connection in dealing with stressors or coping with loneliness, fear, shame, guilt, depression, and end up creating self-sabotaging behaviors.
- It is important to “break the cycle” within your family system by educating your whole family on this cycle of RAD. My question to your family: Is Internet and video gaming a need for your child, to gain the connection to fantasies to create attachment in order to survive in their world? Whether, you think it is or not, Internet and video gaming is an addiction, which requires treatment.
Warning Signs of Internet and Video Gaming Addictions:
- Obsession, compulsion, and preoccupation with video gaming
- The use of gaming and time spent playing, to live in the fantasy world of the games
- Justifying, rationalizing and minimizing the use of video gaming with a constant need for control
- Risk and loss of significant relationships, family engagements, school, jobs, and careers
- Dishonesty with friends and family; restlessness, moodiness, depression, or irritability when trying to cut down the use of video game
- Using Internet and video gaming to escape from problems, and being afraid of others finding out the extent of video game use
- Falling asleep in school, aggressive behaviors, declining performance in classes, dropping out of school, isolating from friends to play video games, or getting suspended from school to increase video gaming time.