Mobile game addiction in children is an increasingly pressing issue, significantly affecting their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This compulsive behavioral disorder disrupts daily responsibilities, relationships, and overall development. Children struggling with this addiction often face physical issues like poor posture, eye strain, and obesity, alongside psychological challenges such as anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal.
In an interview with Rising Kashmir’s Health Correspondent, Mansoor Peer, Dr. Mohd Abrar Guroo, Senior Consultant (Tele MANAS), Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (IMHANS) Srinagar, sheds light on the gravity of the situation. He discusses practical solutions, the path forward, and advice for parents to help limit screen time and promote a healthier digital lifestyle for children.
RK: What is mobile game addiction in children?
Dr. Guroo: As a psychiatrist, I define mobile game addiction as a compulsive mental and behavioural disorder where gaming interferes with a child’s daily life, responsibilities, and relationships. I’ve treated children who become so consumed by gaming that they neglect basic needs like eating, sleeping, or studying. The brain’s reward system is at the heart of this problem—gaming stimulates dopamine (happy hormone) release, which reinforces the behaviour and creates a cycle of dependency. Over time, the child may prioritize gaming above all else, struggling to stop despite negative consequences.
RK: How does it affect a child’s physical and mental health?
Dr. Guroo: I’ve seen the physical toll of gaming addiction in many young patients. They often suffer from conditions like neck and back pain due to poor posture, eye strain from prolonged screen use, and even obesity because gaming reduces physical activity. Mentally, the effects can be profound. Many children develop heightened levels of anxiety and depression, often feeling irritable or restless when they aren’t gaming.
Gaming addiction can also impair sleep, leading to chronic fatigue and poor emotional regulation. In severe cases, I’ve seen children isolate themselves, cutting off meaningful relationships and becoming increasingly withdrawn.
RK: What are its early signs parents should look out for?
Dr. Guroo: In my practice, I guide parents to recognize the subtle signs of gaming addiction early. These include frequent arguments about gaming time, sneaking extra playtime, or showing frustration when interrupted. A child might lie about the amount of time they spend gaming or neglect important tasks, such as homework or chores. Another sign is emotional withdrawal—when a child loses interest in hobbies or family activities they used to enjoy. If a parent notices these patterns, it’s crucial to address them early before they escalate into more severe dependency.
RK: How does mobile gaming impact social skills & academic performance?
Dr. Guroo: One of the most concerning effects I’ve observed is the deterioration of social skills. Children addicted to gaming often replace real-life interactions with virtual ones, leading to underdeveloped communication abilities and difficulty forming meaningful relationships. Academically, the impact is equally troubling.
Many of my young patients report declining grades, missed assignments, and trouble concentrating in class. Gaming consumes their mental energy and attention, leaving little room for learning or personal development. Over time, this can create a negative feedback loop where academic failure increases stress, driving the child further into gaming as an escape.
RK: What factors contribute to addiction?
Dr. Guroo: In my experience, several factors make children vulnerable to gaming addiction. First, all games are designed to be addictive, with reward systems and endless levels that keep players engaged. Social validation also plays a role—many children feel a sense of belonging when playing multiplayer games with friends. External stressors, such as academic pressure or family conflict, can drive children to gaming as a form of escape.
Additionally, children with underlying mental health conditions, such as ADHD or anxiety, are more likely to develop addictive behaviours, as gaming offers temporary relief from their symptoms.
RK: How much screen time is healthy, and how can limits be set?
Dr. Guroo: I usually recommend that children less than 3 years of age have no digital exposure and children under 5 have no more than 1 hour of screen time per day, while older children should aim for 2–3 hours, depending on their age and developmental needs. Setting these limits can be challenging, but it’s essential for maintaining balance.
I encourage parents to establish clear boundaries, like device-free meals or screen-free hours before bedtime. Tools like parental control apps can help enforce these rules, but the most effective strategy is open communication—explaining why these limits are necessary for the child’s overall well-being.
RK: Have you seen cases where gaming leads to gambling?
Dr. Guroo: Yes, I’ve seen several cases where gaming behaviors transition into gambling-like tendencies. Many games use mechanics like loot boxes or microtransactions, buy a level or skill, which mimic gambling by offering random rewards. These features can desensitize children to the risks of gambling, creating a pathway to more serious behaviors later.
For instance, some of my adolescent patients have admitted to spending large sums of money on these features without fully understanding the implications. It’s a growing concern, and I believe stricter regulations and parental awareness are crucial to addressing this issue.
RK: How can parents divert attention from mobile games?
Dr. Guroo: In my practice, I encourage parents to create a structured routine that includes engaging and offline activities. Introducing children to new hobbies, like sports, art, or music, can provide healthier alternatives to gaming. Family activities, such as board games, cooking, or outdoor adventures, help strengthen bonds and reduce screen dependence.
It is also important for parents to model balanced screen usage themselves. When children see their parents maintaining a healthy relationship with technology, they’re more likely to follow.
RK: Are some games more addictive or harmful?
Dr. Guroo: Yes, certain types of games are more addictive due to their design. Games with immersive storylines, suspense, endless progression systems, or competitive multiplayer modes are particularly problematic. They are designed to keep players engaged by offering constant rewards and challenges.
Games with gambling-like features, such as randomized rewards or pay-to-win mechanisms, are especially harmful. These elements exploit psychological vulnerabilities, making it difficult for children to disengage and increasing the risk of financial exploitation.
RK: How to have constructive conversations about limits?
Dr. Guroo: When discussing gaming limits with children, I always recommend a collaborative approach. Instead of imposing rules, involve the child in the conversation and explain the reasons behind the restrictions.
For example, highlight how reducing gaming time can improve their sleep, mood, and focus. It’s also important to listen to their perspective and acknowledge their feelings. Setting goals together, like scheduling specific gaming hours and balancing them with other activities, helps create a sense of ownership and reduces resistance.
RK: What role should schools play?
Dr. Guroo: Schools have an essential role in addressing gaming addiction. In my work with educators, I emphasize the importance of promoting digital literacy and teaching students about healthy screen habits. Schools can offer workshops for students and parents, focusing on the risks of excessive gaming and strategies for balance.
They can also provide extracurricular programs, like sports or clubs, to encourage offline engagement. Teachers and counsellors should remain vigilant for signs of gaming addiction, such as declining academic performance or social withdrawal, and work with families to intervene early.
RK: Could you suggest some therapeutic or technological interventions?
Dr. Guroo: For children struggling with gaming addiction, I often recommend early Psychiatrist consultation. While as Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps children identify the triggers for their gaming behavior and develop healthier coping strategies.
Mindfulness techniques, like meditation or deep breathing exercises, can also help reduce the stress that drives excessive gaming. Technological tools, such as screen-time trackers or apps that block certain games during designated hours, can support parents in setting boundaries. In severe cases, I might suggest treatment which can comprise medication and counseling at the same time.
