A gaming disorder, sometimes referred to as “video game addiction ,” is a pattern of game-playing behavior—involving online gaming or offline video games—that is difficult to control and that continues unabated despite serious negative consequences in other areas of the gamer’s life.
What Is Video Game Addiction? (Plain Language Explanation)
Video Game Addiction refers to a pattern of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that many people experience. While it can be challenging, it's also well-understood and treatable.
Key Terms to Know About Video Game Addiction
- Symptoms: The specific ways video game addiction shows up for you
- Triggers: Situations or thoughts that activate or worsen video game addiction
- Evidence-based: Treatments backed by scientific research
- Comorbidity: When video game addiction occurs alongside other conditions
3 Things Most People Don't Know About Video Game Addiction
- Video Game Addiction is far more common than most people realize
- Video Game Addiction is not caused by weakness — it has identifiable biological and psychological causes
- Most people with video game addiction see significant improvement with the right support
Your Next Steps
Learning about video game addiction is just the beginning. If you think you're experiencing video game addiction, speaking with a mental health professional is the most valuable next step.