Understanding Video Game Addiction
Video game addiction, or internet gaming disorder, occurs when gaming becomes more important than necessary activities like taking care of oneself, spending time with loved ones, or fulfilling work or school duties. It can disrupt how you perceive time and make decisions, as well as cause social withdrawal, increased anger, and a lack of interest in other hobbies.
The problem is getting worse around the world, especially with the rise of online and cloud gaming. These platforms make it easy to access games that often have in-game purchases, which can make addiction stronger, especially for minors and young adults. This issue is largely caused by gaming companies that design games to be addictive in order to increase profits through in-game transactions, known as “microtransactions.”
Individuals impacted by video game addiction are now pursuing legal action against game manufacturers. These lawsuits aim to hold these companies accountable for not adequately warning users about the addictive nature of their games. At Beasley Allen, we are committed to holding these manufacturers responsible and securing justice for our clients.
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Chad Cook Principal Montgomery, AL -
W. Roger Smith, III Principal Montgomery, AL -
Mary Cam Raybon Associate Montgomery, AL
Profit Over Safety
Video game addiction is a growing concern, especially with the rise of advanced online gaming. This addiction has caused significant harm to people of all ages, but it’s particularly troubling for adolescents.
The lawsuits focus on two main issues: defective design and failure to warn. Design flaws were present from the very beginning, and when kids used the games as intended, they became addicted because the companies didn’t provide adequate warnings.
It’s argued that the companies could have made their products safer to reduce the risk of addiction and other harmful effects, even if it meant earning slightly less money. Safer options could include avoiding features that cause addiction, setting up strong age checks, creating effective parental controls, and providing health warnings.
As a result of these alleged design flaws, children have suffered physical injuries, mental harm, emotional distress, and financial losses. These injuries were foreseeable consequences of the companies’ actions in creating these games.
The Effects
Video game addiction can lead to various health issues and injuries. Some of the harms associated with video game addiction include:
- Disruption in proper brain development,
- Social Isolation: People addicted to video games often withdraw from social interactions, which can harm their social skills and development.
- Anxiety and Depression: Excessive gaming is linked to higher rates of anxiety and depression.
- Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSI): Overuse of controllers can lead to injuries in the hands and wrists.
- Sleep Disruption: Addiction to video games can cause sleep loss, leading to various health problems.
- Aggression: Video game addiction can result in excessive aggression, often referred to as “gamer’s rage,” and uncontrollable anger.
- School and Job Issues: Addiction frequently leads to poor performance in school and at work.
