Teens are seeking help with gaming, phone addiction, but are struggling to find it
Desperate teens addicted to gaming, gambling or their phones are increasingly reaching out for help, but finding only advice foe their parents.
SA News
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An Adelaide expert in online gaming addiction and problem gambling is warning of a worrying gap in teen-targeted support services
The senior researcher and clinical psychologist at Flinders University’s College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, Dr Daniel King, wants more resources targeted to engage and support teenagers, rather than simply guidance for their parents.
“It is great to offer parents advice and signs to look out for in relation to problem gaming but you want teenagers as well to have good resources,” he said.
“And that is where there is a big gap, in addressing technology overuse and having interesting resources for teenagers and emerging adults … it can’t just be about having parents tell them what to do.”
Dr King said it was an issue of concern teenagers had themselves identified.
“I receive an email each week from a high school student contacting me about their research project, on either gaming, social media or phone ‘addiction’,” he said.
“So, it is an issue teenagers are aware of and thinking critically about, they have questions and want information.”
Dr King said greater consistency around how problem gaming was measured was needed as well as a better understanding of the impacts of problem gaming.
What is known is that young males are two to three times more at risk of problem gaming than females. In its most extreme form, the consequences can be potentially dire.
“Young people who are problem gamers can drop out of school, they can lose touch with their family and friends in the real world, they can become quite depressed and anxious … (and this can result in) suicidal ideation,” Dr King said.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) now formally recognises the conditions of “gaming disorder” and “hazardous gaming”.
Dr King said it was vital vulnerable adolescents and young adults were given support to help with online gaming and gambling issues, because the internet was unavoidable.
“People need the internet, it is tied into their daily life, we use it in school and work life and to socialise, so there are constant reminders and incentives to play,” he said.
“When it comes to changing problematic habits, it can often be easier if you give it up completely or schedule days off, instead of shorter play times.”
Dr King said there were positive aspects to gaming in moderation, including fostering problem-solving skills, creativity and socialising with friends.
