Nir And Far: Business, Behaviour and the Brain

Kids’ Video Game Obsession Isn’t Really About Video Games. It’s About Unmet Psychological Needs.-Nir&Far

Oct 5, 2020

10:05

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In this episode, NirAndFar discusses kids' video game obsession with a focus on Fortnite. They explore the difference between addiction and overindulgence, and discuss strategies for parents to help their children find healthier alternatives. It emphasizes the importance of self-regulation, intentional gaming, and open dialogue between parents and children.

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Quick takeaways

Video game addiction involves a lack of control and adverse consequences, but playing moderately can benefit children's psychological well-being.

The special draw of gaming lies in satisfying psychological needs like competence, autonomy, and relatedness, which many children lack in other areas of their lives.

Deep dives

Gaming on its own does not cause addiction but other factors should be considered

While video games like Fortnite are generally fine and do not cause disorders like addiction on their own, it is important for parents to be aware of other factors. Children spending excessive time on video games could indicate a problem. However, addiction involves a lack of control and adverse consequences. If a child can balance gaming with other activities like socializing or sports and shows interest in studies or household chores, they are not addicted. Moderate video gameplay has even been shown to be beneficial for psychological well-being.

Introduction

3min

Understanding the Psychological Needs Met by Video Games

5min

Understanding Kids' Video Game Obsession and Helping them Find What They Need

2min

Many parents are concerned with their child’s seemingly obsessive video game play. Fortnite, the most recent gaming phenomenon, has taken the world by storm and has parents asking whether the shooter game is okay for kids.

The short answer is yes, Fortnite is generally fine. Furthermore, parents can breathe easier knowing that research suggests gaming (on its own) does not cause disorders like addiction.

You can read the NirAndFar blog post on: Kids' Video Game Obsession Isn't Really About Video Games. It's About Unmet Psychological Needs https://www.nirandfar.com/kids-video-game-obsession/

Nir & Far, a podcast about business, behaviour and the brain by Nir Eyal. If you enjoy this podcast, please subscribe on iTunes and leave an iTunes review. It will greatly help new listeners discover the show. Please visit my website Nir and Far for other info about my writing, books and teaching: http://www.nirandfar.com/

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