| The behaviors that we hear most often reported
in our clinical experience include:
For
kids - Most of non-school hours are spent on the computer
or playing video games.
- Falling asleep in school.
- Not keeping
up with assignments.
- Worsening grades.
- Lying about computer or
video game use.
- Choosing to use the computer or play video games, rather
than see friends.
- Dropping out of social groups (clubs or sports) in order
to play games.
- Stealing money in order to buy or play games.
- Irritable
when not playing a video game or on the computer.
- Unsuccessful attempts
to cut back on game play.
For adults
- Computer or video game use is characterized by intense feelings
of pleasure and guilt.
- Obsessing and pre-occupied about being on the computer,
even when not connected.
- Hours playing video games or on the computer
increasing, seriously disrupting family, social or even work life.
- Lying
about computer or video game use.
- Experience feelings of withdrawal, anger,
or depression when not on the computer or involved with their video game.
- May
incur large phone or credit bills for on-line services.
- Can't control
computer or video game use.
- Fantasy life on-line replaces emotional life
with partner.
Physical symptoms of addiction
- Carpal tunnel syndrome or other repetitive stress injuries
- Sleep
disturbances
- Back, neck aches
- Headaches
- Dry eyes
- Failure
to eat regularly
- Neglect of personal hygiene
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