In this blog, I will finally dive into the negative consequences that have been linked with gaming disorder, including the consequences associated with physical and mental health.
Check out my second and third blogs to understand more about gaming disorder, including what it is and the potential benefits of gaming.
Physical health
In terms of physical health consequences, psychosomatic symptoms comprising of seizures and sleep abnormalities have been identified (Kuss & Griffiths, 2012). Additionally, gaming has been linked to increased fatigue and concentration problems (Männikkö et al., 2015).
Gaming has also been linked to injuries. Overuse or repetitive motions may lead to pain and inflammation to develop. If not addressed, this may result in conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, de Quervain’s tenosynovitis (also known as Gamer’s thumb), and/or stenosing tenosynovitis (trigger finger). Other known injuries can include tennis elbow, or eye strain from repeatedly staring at a screen.
However, the negative effects of gaming is not limited to physical health; there are also mental health considerations.
Mental health
As for the impact of gaming on mental health, research has found links between gaming and psychological harms including depression, generalized anxiety disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and psychosomatic symptoms (Kuss & Griffiths, 2012). Similarly, social anxiety appear to be linked to gaming disorder (Caplan, 2007).
In terms of the co-occurrence with other addictive behaviors, a recent review found links between gaming disorder and alcohol use disorder and problematic social media use.
In a 2020 review of the literature, the five most frequently reported health-variables that were linked to gaming disorder were 1) depression, 2) Internet addiction, 3) anxiety, 4) impulsiveness, and 5) ADHD.
The impact of gaming disorder on mental health remains a widely-researched topic (albeit gaming still being a newer disorder), and as more research emerges, this will increase our understanding of the impact of gaming on mental health.
Other consequences
In terms of other consequences, gaming disorder has also been associated with a decline in academic achievement in students (Brunborg et al., 2014). Additionally, research has demonstrated gaming disorder to be strongly correlated with poorer self-control and discipline (Kim et al., 2008). Similarly, psychosocial problems, including aggression and hostility, have also been noted (Kuss & Griffiths, 2012).
A review of the current literature concluded that research on withdrawal symptoms in gaming disorder is underdeveloped. There appears to be evidence for affective symptoms (e.g., negative emotional states such as guilt and irritability) and physical symptoms (e.g., loss of appetite, difficulty breathing and headaches) but not explicitly for cognitive (e.g., maladaptive or irrational thoughts) problems or impairment (e.g., attention, concentration and memory difficulties; impaired decision-making; Kaptsis et al., 2016). Research continues to be ongoing on the withdrawal symptoms of gaming disorder given this remains crucial information for developing evidenced-based treatments and interventions for problematic gamers.
In conclusion, it is important to strive to play in moderation. Monitor how long you or your loved ones are gaming. Gamers should ensure they get plenty of sleep, physical activity, and a nutritious diet. It is also vital to take breaks often and to refrain from sitting for too long, given sedentary behavior is also linked to a whole host of other health problems.
Remember, gaming can be a fun pastime…when played in moderation.
Photo by Alexander Andrews on Unsplash
