In a bizarre incident, a 16-year-old boy tragically ended his life by jumping from the 14th floor of a residential building in Pune. Authorities are investigating his involvement in an online game as a potential cause, especially after discovering a chilling "log out" message in his notebook. The boy's parents revealed that he had been addicted to playing the online game, raising urgent questions about the psychological impacts of gaming addiction on young minds.
To understand the psychological grip these games have on individuals, we spoke to Dr Kiran Dhake, MBBS, DMRE, Corporate Wellness Physician and Imaging Specialist, Mumbai. Dr Dhake emphasises that the addiction of these games is rooted in various factors that target age, gender, socio-economic background, usage patterns, and behavioural impacts.
Motivational Factors Behind Game Addiction
Attainment Factor
Dr Dhake explains, "The attainment factor involves an uncontrolled desire to succeed in gameplay, driven by a detailed understanding of the game's rules and a strong urge to compete with others. This creates a relentless pursuit of achievement that can consume a player's thoughts and actions."
Connectivity Factor
"Gaming applications facilitate social connections," says Dr Dhake. "They provide a platform for chatting, joining player groups, and guiding others in the game, making it a primary channel for establishing social bonds."
Enthrallment Factor
The immersive nature of games is another significant draw. "Players often escape into the game's world, generating and customising characters and modes," notes Dr Dhake. "This enthrallment can lead to a detachment from reality, where the game becomes more appealing than everyday life."
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Mastery Factor
Dr Dhake points out, "Mastery in gaming requires a stable mental state to complete tasks. Many games are designed to be simple yet engaging, encouraging players to keep playing to achieve mastery."
Liberty Factor
"The liberty factor gives players complete control over their gaming actions," explains Dr Dhake. "This sense of voluntary power can be incredibly addictive, as it contrasts with the lack of control they might feel in real life."
Pertinence Factor
"The urge to relate, interact, and compete with others is powerful," says Dr Dhake. "Games provide a platform to engage with a different world, often more exciting than their real-life experiences."
Amusement Factor
Lastly, the amusement factor plays a crucial role. "Gamers are drawn to the enjoyable and relaxing aspects of games," Dr Dhake explains. "This discovery of joy without constraints is a significant motivator."
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The Social Aspect and Consequences
The social aspect of gaming cannot be overlooked. "Many games are multiplayer, engaging numerous players simultaneously," Dr Dhake notes. "This social connection and the recognition gained from it are vital in determining continued play."
However, the repercussions of gaming can be severe. Dr Dhake warns, "Game addiction can lead to suicidal tendencies, strained interpersonal relationships, negative emotions from losing, a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, and visual refractive errors."
Despite these risks, Dr Dhake acknowledges the positive aspects of gaming. "Gamers often have superior visual-auditory skills," he says. "Educational and health-related games can offer substantial benefits, improving spatial abilities and providing more than just entertainment."
Conclusion
The integration of computer and internet technology into our lives is undeniable, but so is its potential for addiction. "This subject is under-researched and often disregarded," Dr. Dhake asserts. "Recognizing and addressing gaming addiction early is crucial." Dr Dhake advises, "Games should be enjoyed for fun and mental well-being, not become a destructive force. Awareness and moderation are key to preventing the contamination of our mindset and health." By understanding the psychology behind game addiction, we can better protect vulnerable populations and ensure that gaming remains a source of positive engagement rather than a dangerous obsession.