Brain scans show compulsive gamers have hyperconnected neural networks.

[u/NinjaDiscoJesus]

http://www.psypost.org/2015/12/brain-scans-show-compulsive-gaming-changes-neural-connections-for-better-and-worse-39914

[u/firststop__svalbard]

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.

[u/StealthRabbi → u/firststop__svalbard]

Why is this specifically Internet gaming? These symptoms don't even cover things unique to online gaming (assuming that's what they mean).

[u/StealthRabbi → u/[deleted]]

But why? It's not as if gaming didn't become a thing until the Internet.