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Teen video game addiction is not an urban legend or a misleading narrative. In truth, a recent long-term study reveals the complex dangers of teen video game addiction. Conducted by researchers at Brigham Young University, the six-year study is the longest study ever done on video game addiction. After compiling the data, the results offer a good news-bad news perspective on teen video game addiction.

Indeed, the good news is positive. The study found that close to 90% of gamers do not play video games in a pathological manner, leading to negative long-term consequences. However, the undeniable negativity of the bad news needs to be shared with parents. Most players do not suffer a behavioral addiction while gaming. Still, a significant minority, almost 10% -are susceptible to video game addiction. Such a susceptibility comes with negative consequences. Indeed, because of teen video game addiction, gamers suffer from an array of complex dangers. Thus, they are vulnerable to behavioral, social, and mental consequences.

The Behavioral Dangers of Teen Video Game Addiction

As a provider of integrated healthcare services for youth, Tarzana Treatment Centers (TTC) treats behavioral disorders. Although we prefer not to add stigma to a difficulty by using the culturally-loaded word “addiction,” we recognize that it is still a key part of the professional jargon. Moreover, addiction is a word that is understood by the public.

At the beginning of the study review published in Science Daily, the authors outline their objectives. Sarah Coyne, a professor of family life at BYU and lead author of the research, explains, “The aim of this particular study is to look at the longer-term impact of having a particular relationship with video games and what it does to a person over time. To see the impact, we examined the trajectories of pathological video gameplay across six years, from early adolescence to emerging adulthood… There is a growing concern that spending too much time playing video games is related to negative developmental outcomes and can become an addiction.”

For the vast majority of teens, video games are a welcome distraction and an enjoyable pastime. For a distinct minority, however, video gaming is a real threat. According to U.S. Census Bureau estimates, in 2019, there are 25 million youth aged 12-17 in the United States. It is important to note that not every teenager plays video games. According to a recent study by the Pew Research Center, 59 percent of girls and 84 percent of boys 13-17 play video games. Regardless of the exact numbers, it means that well more than a million youth have the potential of being addicted to gaming. Indeed, it is a substantial number.

Teen Video Game Addiction = A Toxic Presence in the Family

The definition of pathological video gameplay marks the following parameters:

1. Excessive time spent playing video games

1. Difficulty disengaging from the games

1. Disruption to healthy functioning due to gaming

Although only about 10% of gamers fall into teen video game addiction, it is not a minor disorder. Compared to the non-pathological group, teenagers suffering from this disorder have higher levels of depression, aggression, shyness, problematic cell phone use, and anxiety. Overall, it is more difficult for them to make the transition into adulthood.

At the beginning of the study, the authors established a common baseline for the 385 adolescents chosen. Since the teen participants start on equal footing, there seems to be a direct connection between the negative consequences and teen video game addiction. The study finds that a strong indicator for teen video game addiction is low levels of prosocial behavior. Prosocial behavior means voluntary actions that are intended to benefit another person. In other words, being a decent person and being of service to others are protective factors against the symptomology of behavioral addictions.

Across the six-year study, seventy-two percent of adolescents experienced few addictive symptoms. Although not classified as teen video game addiction, 18% of the adolescents experienced moderate symptoms. However, these symptoms did not worsen over time. When it comes to pathological gaming symptoms that were persistent over time, 10% of adolescents show increasing levels of this behavioral disorder.

Tarzana Treatment Centers Can Help Your Teenager

In the harsh light of the study statistics, you are not alone if you think your teenager has a video gaming problem. Most importantly, it is essential when such a problem arises to work with an experienced professional. At TTC, we can help you and your teenager if you are willing to take the first step.

For teen video game addiction support, please get in touch with us today. The long-term wellness and success of your teenager is our goal.