Children naturally love to play, which is why many parents use online games on phones, computers, or other gadgets to keep them calm. Unfortunately, this can lead to children becoming addicted to online games. Let's explore how to prevent this in the following discussion.
The Negative Impact of Children Addicted to Online Games
Playing online games is indeed enjoyable. However, did you know that online games on phones or computers can lead to addiction in children? Just like alcohol, this activity can be addictive.
In fact, game addiction has been recognized as a mental disorder, based on the World Health Organization's (WHO) Revision of the International Classification of Diseases concerning internet gaming disorder.
Children addicted to online games can experience several adverse health effects, including:
- Eye strain due to prolonged exposure to blue light from gadgets.
- Body aches from lack of movement.
- Stiffness and soreness in the fingers and arms.
- Fatigue and lethargy from insufficient rest.
In addition to affecting physical health, this condition can also impact mental health, such as:
- Delayed maturity,
- A tendency to lie and deceive parents, and even
- Imitating violent scenes portrayed in the games they play.
Furthermore, this condition can also negatively affect their social life, such as:
- Declining academic performance,
- Lack of participation in organizations and sports activities, and
- Difficulty socializing and communicating with peers.
What Are the Signs of a Child Addicted to Online Games?
According to the American Psychiatric Association, internet gaming disorder is characterized by the following symptoms:
- Being overly engrossed while playing games.
- Reacting excessively when the game is interrupted, such as feeling sad, anxious, or even becoming aggressive.
- Spending more and more time playing games to feel satisfied.
- Failing to reduce or stop playing games despite trying.
- Losing interest in other previously enjoyed activities.
- Continuing to play despite facing problems or difficulties.
- Continuing to play even in inappropriate situations.
- Hiding gaming time from others to play longer.
- Experiencing mood swings such as guilt or despair.
- Damaging relationships and interactions with other family members.
The signs that typically occur in children addicted to online games include:
- Ignoring school lessons and focusing more on gaming.
- Continuing to play games even when forbidden.
- Playing games while the teacher is explaining lessons.
- Refusing to put down the gadget, even for a moment.
- Avoiding outdoor play with peers.
How to Prevent Children from Becoming Addicted to Online Games
Due to the severe consequences, you must do everything possible to prevent your child from becoming addicted to games. If it happens, treating it will become increasingly difficult. Prevent it early by following these tips:
1. Ensure You Supervise Them While Playing
Some parents may choose to completely ban their children from playing online games. However, if you allow it, ensure your child plays under your supervision. The goal is to know what they are playing and ensure they don't lose interaction with those around them.
2. Limit Time If They Play Alone
Playing alone can be beneficial, allowing children to understand themselves and freely develop their skills. However, remember that this also risks giving them the opportunity to play online games excessively. If you provide gadgets or a computer for your child, set a maximum time limit to prevent them from becoming addicted to online games.
3. Store Gadgets in Hidden Places and Use Passwords
Gadgets are the medium for playing online games. Therefore, don't leave gadgets in easily accessible places. You can store them in a drawer to make it difficult for children to play in secret. Don't forget to set a difficult password so your child can't easily access it. Additionally, you can set the gadget to not automatically connect to the internet, so your child has to ask for your permission before playing online games.
4. Show Your Firmness
It can be challenging to get children to stop playing gadgets when their time is up. They may prolong their playtime or even throw a tantrum. If this happens, don't spoil them by allowing them to continue playing. Try to be firm. To shift their focus away from the game, engage them in other activities, such as bathing, eating, or helping you clean the house.
5. Fill Their Time with Fun Activities
Reducing playtime can prevent children from becoming addicted to online games, but it may also lead to boredom. To address this, find fun alternative activities, such as taking them shopping, watering plants, cleaning the yard, or other enjoyable group activities.
6. Encourage Play with Friends
To prevent game addiction, encourage your child to socialize and engage in outdoor activities with friends. Try forming a small group with peers and guide them to do activities together, such as playing in the park, cycling, playing traditional games, drawing together, and so on.
7. Consult a Psychologist
Preventing your child from becoming addicted to online games may strain your relationship with them. Your child may resent you for implementing certain rules. Therefore, consult a psychologist, mental health expert, or family consultant to learn the best prevention methods. The goal is to maintain a harmonious relationship with your child.
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