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A new study from Iowa State University and the National Institute on Media and the Family (NIMF) suggests as many as 8.5% of young gamers show signs of pathological video game use. GamePolitics reports on the study, in which the author is hesitant to use the word dreaded A-word. "Addiction is not a proper medical term," says author Douglas Gentile. He claims his phrasing suits it better since it "disrupts the ability to function socially, psychologically, occupationally, academically, or otherwise." The study interviewed over 1,100 children aged 8-18.
The signs of addiction vary. Some seem fairly normal for any kid with a hobby, like skipping chores or homework to play games, or playing to "escape problems." 20% of respondents said they did poorly on schoolwork or a test due to playing. The most serious signs of addiction, which might sound familiar if you've read up on drug and alcohol addictions, were reports of stealing games or money to buy games, or lying to family and friends about their level of videogame playing. For obvious reasons, these signs were the least common.

"This study is a wake-up call for families," said NIMF president David Walsh. "While games can be fun and entertaining, some kids are getting into trouble. I continue to hear from families who are concerned about their child's gaming habits. Not only do we need to focus on identifying the problem, but we need to find ways to help families prevent and treat it."

Not everyone agrees with the findings, however. Dr. Cheryl Olson, co-author of Grand Theft Childhood, has already spoken out, criticizing the study's methodology. "The concern here is labeling normal childhood behaviors as 'pathological' and 'addicted,'" she said. "The author is repurposing questions used to asses problem gambling in adults. Lying to your spouse about blowing the rent money... is a very different matter from fibbing to your mom."

She also raises the question of whether "kids as young as 8 can accurately fill out a self-administered online questionnaire, especially one that uses questions designed for adults." She does say the study is "well intended," and a good reminder for parents to set boundaries.

It's also worth noting that NIMF isn't exactly the most unbiased study sponsor. The organization has been warning against game addiction for a long time, and generally studies are compromised when a conclusion comes before the science proves it. But like any hobby, games can become compulsive behavior, which is why it's important for parents to step in as Dr. Olson recommends.

haha, this is probably coming from someone who has never played video games in their life

They should add an example. Whitey. 11 years old and non-stop Call of Duty, except for the twinkie breaks.