Video game addiction is a complex issue with various psychological factors at play. Let’s explore some of the key reasons why people find it difficult to stop playing video games.
1. Dopamine and the Triumph Circuit
Video games tap into a psychological pattern in our brains called the triumph circuit, which makes us feel a sense of achievement when we accomplish something. This feeling of achievement is often delivered quickly in video games, leading the brain to gravitate towards gaming rather than pursuing real-life goals to achieve the same feeling. This is due to the release of dopamine, the neurotransmitter that regulates pleasure. When individuals develop a tolerance to dopamine, they may find other activities less enjoyable and may feel bored when not gaming
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2. Psychological Needs
Video games fulfill various psychological needs, such as competence, autonomy, and relatedness. Competence is fulfilled through the challenge and achievement in games, while autonomy and relatedness are satisfied through the sense of control and social interaction provided by gaming. This can lead individuals to neglect these needs in real life, finding fulfillment primarily through gaming
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3. Escapism and Immersion
Gaming provides an escape from real-life challenges and allows individuals to immerse themselves in unique stories and characters. This immersion component, along with the desire to escape from real-life, contributes to the appeal of gaming
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4. Quality of Gaming Experience
Research from the University of Oxford suggests that it’s not the quantity of gaming that affects mental health, but rather the quality of the gaming experience. If individuals feel compelled to play, they may experience negative effects on their mental health. However, if they play because they genuinely enjoy it, the data does not suggest a negative impact on mental health
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5. Addiction and Impact on Real Life
Video game addiction can lead to excessive gaming, neglect of real-life responsibilities, financial implications, and a sense of loneliness. Excessive gaming can also result in missed opportunities and a lack of tangible achievements in real life,.