I’ve posted before the results of a study that found that gaming is not clinically addictive, but that not withstanding, I can certainly understand the concept of “game lock” , which is essentially a temporary obsession on a particular game. This can happen with anything. I know that I’ve been “yard locked” as well, while I was building my fence and deck this summer and I know that on my long runs, I get “run locked” as I tune out to the world for long stretches and when I’m in a real good groove, I can’t wait for my next run. So what is it about gaming lock that might lead people to think that it is so different and that there is this issue of addition out there? Is it that they don’t understand it so they over react?
Not being an addition expert, I’m not saying that it is impossible to become addicted to the ‘net or anything else that is facilitated through behavior. But with my limited understanding, I think this Q&A from the Washington Post is a bit off… While I agree that if there is something destructive about addiction, the individual in question here isn’t in any trouble, the individual in question is certainly beyond game lock. He’s not doing well in school and not matching what his parents hope for him to do. I can certainly appreciate how this must weigh on the parents, but it is certainly possible that the individual in question is one of those who is destined to be a bit of a recluse.
The answer-lady, Marguerite Kelly, suggests a “read a book” remedy at the end. This was what spun me off. She started with some good ideas. The parents should understand what their child is getting from the game and see a therapist. But then she proceeds to tell them to have the child fit the “norm” – what is the norm? It might be that this individual, who wants to get into the game industry does ultimately want to fit the norm, but needs structure how to do it. I don’t think this is something that needs to involve a visit to Gamers Anonymous, especially if there is no signs or diagnosis of addition. Shouldn’t any steps after the therapist be up to the therapist? The self diagnosis/healing might do more good in the end, especially as she says, in essence, “just install some stuff and then it will take care of things without fuss from you”… might that have been the problem in the first place??
I would hope that the parents cold work with their child to channel the energy that is put into playing the game into other activities that might be game themed at first and then branch out. Maybe the parents should try playing to show some level of support… I don’t have “the” answer, but whatever it is, it certainly isn’t a “leave it to the machine that you think is poisoning your child”.
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