MaJ
16-10-2006, 08:56 PM
Addiction to computer games is as serious as gambling and drug use, a psychologist has warned.
Computer game addicts spend so much time playing they can lose their jobs, break up their families and stunt their social development, says clinical psychologist Jo Lamble.
The co-author of a book on internet relationships, Ms Lamble is urging authorities to act.
"I have seen a steady increase in the number of computer game addicts," she said. "Mostly it's the partners or parents who come asking for help as the gamers don't even know they have a problem.
"Gamers report they feel much calmer when they are playing and feel euphoric when they win. Playing the games sets up a series of patterns, habits and routines that are addictive in the same way drugs are."
http://www.smh.com.au/ffximage/2006/10/14/aspinall151006_wideweb__470x307,0.jpg
Game over ... Michael Aspinall, whose addiction to computer games cost him his marriage and job, is receiving therapy.
http://www.smh.com.au/news/games/computers...0850843906.html (http://www.smh.com.au/news/games/computers-breed-new-addiction/2006/10/16/1160850843906.html)
Computer game addicts spend so much time playing they can lose their jobs, break up their families and stunt their social development, says clinical psychologist Jo Lamble.
The co-author of a book on internet relationships, Ms Lamble is urging authorities to act.
"I have seen a steady increase in the number of computer game addicts," she said. "Mostly it's the partners or parents who come asking for help as the gamers don't even know they have a problem.
"Gamers report they feel much calmer when they are playing and feel euphoric when they win. Playing the games sets up a series of patterns, habits and routines that are addictive in the same way drugs are."
http://www.smh.com.au/ffximage/2006/10/14/aspinall151006_wideweb__470x307,0.jpg
Game over ... Michael Aspinall, whose addiction to computer games cost him his marriage and job, is receiving therapy.
http://www.smh.com.au/news/games/computers...0850843906.html (http://www.smh.com.au/news/games/computers-breed-new-addiction/2006/10/16/1160850843906.html)