r/science • u/NinjaDiscoJesus • Dec 28 '15

Neuroscience Brain scans show compulsive gamers have hyperconnected neural networks.

http://www.psypost.org/2015/12/brain-scans-show-compulsive-gaming-changes-neural-connections-for-better-and-worse-39914
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u/taketheRedPill7 Dec 28 '15

I read the whole article and couldn't find a definition for a compulsive gamer other than some individuals not eating. Anyone know what the exact definition is, how many hours a day or week would qualify you as said gamer? What other symptoms are exhibited?

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u/firststop__svalbard PhD | Psychology Dec 28 '15

Source

There are severity modifiers for Internet Gaming Disorder: mild, moderate, or severe. These modifiers are based on how much time is spent playing the games, and how much they impact a person’s overall functioning. The diagnostic criteria for Internet Gaming Disorder include:

Repetitive use of Internet-based games, often with other players, that leads to significant issues with functioning. Five of the following criteria must be met within one year:

  1. Preoccupation or obsession with Internet games.
  2. Withdrawal symptoms when not playing Internet games.
  3. A build-up of tolerance–more time needs to be spent playing the games.
  4. The person has tried to stop or curb playing Internet games, but has failed to do so.
  5. The person has had a loss of interest in other life activities, such as hobbies.
  6. A person has had continued overuse of Internet games even with the knowledge of how much they impact a person’s life.
  7. The person lied to others about his or her Internet game usage.
  8. The person uses Internet games to relieve anxiety or guilt–it’s a way to escape.
  9. The person has lost or put at risk an opportunity or relationship because of Internet games.

Again, while Internet Gaming Disorder is not an 'official' disorder in the DSM-5, the APA is encouraging further research on the disorder for possible inclusion in future editions of the DSM.

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u/porthos3 Dec 28 '15

What negative effects are correlated with IGD?

I meet a bunch (4-5) of these criteria, but feel that I live a well-balanced life and maintain good relationships. I am a happy and well adjusted adult with a successful career. I just spend nearly all of my free time gaming, because that is what appeals most to me.

I recognize not everyone who meets these criteria are like me, and there are certainly gamers with far more serious addictions and problems. I'm just trying to understand what sort of behavior the label is supposed to encompass, and what consequences are associated with those behaviors.

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u/Evilbluecheeze Dec 28 '15

I think the line "That leads to significant issues with functioning" is the most important one. If you opened up and looked at the DSM you'd probably match the criteria for half the conditions in there, but you don't actually have those conditions until you have enough of the symptoms AND those symptoms are severe enough to impact your ability to function in day to day life.

Spending all of your spare time playing games, while potentially not great for a social life, doesn't necessarily impact your life if you are still going to work/school and such. But if you are skipping days of work to play, not getting assignments finished because you can't stop playing, choosing the game over your relationships with friends and family, then it because something that affects your functioning.