A new study, based on a 2007 Harris poll, claims that nearly one in 10 children and teens who play video games show behavioral signs that may indicate addiction. The study found 8.5% of those who played had at least six of 11 addictive symptoms (based on the criteria for gambling addiction), including skipping chores and homework for video games, poor test or homework performance and playing games to escape problems. Boys also showed more proclivity to thinking about games and their next opportunity to play than girls.
Critics warn though that the study needs to be viewed with skepticism. The research needs to be replicated before it can be considered valid and it was sponsored by the National Institute for Media and the Family, a media watchdog group. They survey could have also found higher game use because it was conducted in January rather than a summer month and classifies people as being addicted without their ever seeing a physician to verify these claims.
Comments