A new study suggests that excessive video gaming could contribute to ADHD symptoms.
With the popularity of video games, especially Fortnite, at an all-time high among kids and teenagers, parents may want to start paying attention to the amount of gaming going on at home.
Research recently published in the Journal of the American Medical Association shows that kids linked to excessive screen time—in particular playing video games—showed ADHD-like symptoms during a two-year follow-up period.
Here’s how the study was conducted:
- More than 2,500 teens were evaluated who did not at the start of the study show any symptoms of ADHD.
- They were then followed over two years in regard to digital media use (specifics on media use time were not revealed), and their behavior was rated in terms of inattentiveness or hyperactivity, common ADHD symptoms.
- Those claiming the most time spent on digital media exhibited the greatest ADHD-like symptoms.
Children and teenagers with ADHD are drawn to the repetition and routine of logging on and visiting the same characters and similar missions they are tasked with completing during each game.
Experts say this doesn’t mean you should completely ban video games, but setting limits for gaming and all screen time is a good idea.
“Establishing media-free zones in the house that apply to all in the family, as well as designated times when children can access media can help monitor gaming activity,” says Child Neurology Consultants’ Dr. Dilip Karnik. “Another good practice is to permit gaming or electronic device use as a reward only after household chores, homework or an important task are completed.”
A few positive aspects of online gaming include improved hand-eye coordination, use of problem-solving skills, and social interaction as kids are often required to work with others towards a common goal.
(Adapted from Healthline.com)
