Why is Video Gaming Addiction Rampant?
Overly indulging in something can only be called an addiction if it interferes with normal life routines. If a person cannot leave his post in front of his computer or console to do chores, he may be a gaming addict. A gaming addict is someone who has the compulsion to try a game and immerse himself in it. The lifestyle of a gaming addict is unique. Gaming addicts are always in front of their gadgets and they seldom go out. If a video game addict refuses to part from his games, the other aspects of his life suffer. His gaming becomes the most important thing to him. He often buys things that contribute to his addiction, like better computer and more gadgets. Here are some causes to video game addictions.
Explanations
Playing video games triggers a so-called Pavlovian response system. This response system may be the main contributor to the addiction. A game could make a player feel like going for the rewards at the end of each level. A Pavlovian response has a lot to do with the gratification that comes after a long period of waiting. This response has something to do with gaining a reward after long hours of hard work. Soon, the person finds ways to increase the speed by which the reward is obtained. The game difficulty may also direct the course of the addiction. The better the rewards, the more the player strives to get it.
Leveling may be the reward, but it can also be virtual items. In massive online multi player games, the gamer aims to be the best among the other players. Becoming the best player brings out the competitive attitude in these players.
Side Effects of Addiction
The gamer does not realize he is forgetting his other responsibilities when he’s playing the game. People who get addicted to games don’t notice their lives passing them by. Everything else become so mundane to these players. Gamers isolate their families and friends. Because gamers focus almost entirely on in-game achievements, they forget their real life achievements. They have no other way of excelling, if it’s not inside the game. There are tournaments to prepare for and more levels to complete. Only the best players are allowed to play, which contributes to addiction even more.
