Last Updated on January 22, 2023 by
In today’s increasingly digital society the majority of people have many electronic devices equipped with screens. But, many parents are concerned about the negative effects of their screen usage on their children and themselves.
With screens all over the place, the control of the time spent on screens by children isn’t easy. What can you do to keep your children’s time on screens? How can you determine whether your child or you are addicted to video or screen games? Also Read: How to Make Immortality in Little Alchemy 2?
It’s not easy to get rid of screens entirely, especially given their role in school and at work. However, prolonged screen time can have a negative impact on an individual’s mental, social and physical well-being.
It can be stimulating for all ages. This is due to the fact that their brains process and respond to sensory inputs as if it is taking place to them. For instance, many have laughed, cried or even been shocked when watching a film. The same kind of interaction is possible when a player engages in an online game.
When playing a video game The brain interprets the scene as if it’s real. If the game portrays an extremely violent or dangerous situation and the player’s body responds in a similar way. It’s a “fight-or-flight response” to that perceived danger that can be triggered due to exposure to intense stimulation as well as violence during the game. The excessive use of video games could result in the brain becoming in a state of constant hyperarousal.
The signs of hyperarousal vary for every person. It may include issues with staying focused and managing emotions in a controlled manner, controlling impulses, adhering to instructions and dealing with anger. Children and adults struggle with compassion and creativity, and they exhibit less interest in studying.
This may cause a lack of compassion for others, which could lead to violence. Children who depend on social media and screens for interaction with other users tend to feel more lonely than children who meet in real life.
Hyperarousal that is chronic can cause physical manifestations, too symptoms like decreased immunity, irritation, jittery emotions depression, as well as low levels of blood sugar.
Children are prone to crave sweets during video games. When combined with the sedentary aspect of games, kids’ weight and diet can be affected also. Children may even be reluctant to take a break from the game in order in order to get to the bathroom and this can cause problems with hygiene.
What can cause gaming to become an addiction?
An addiction can be defined as the inability of a person to manage their usage of a substance or behavior, despite the negative effects. People who are immersed in video or screen games and ignoring their normal activities may be close to the definition of an addict.
What is the reason for this? The reward center of your brain release dopamine in the wake of a pleasant experience or arousal. If someone experiences excessive arousal during video games and the brain connects the game with dopamine. The player is then able to develop a strong urge to search for the same thrill repeatedly.
Dopamine is a potent neurotransmitter found in the brain. It is a key ingredient in keeping the attention and interest of people that’s why it is difficult for people to break away from the situation or behavior. It also reinforces itself. The more people are exposed to the behavior and experience it, the more dopamine is released and the more enticed they become to repeat the behavior. Also Read: How to Make Wood in Little Alchemy?
Signs of screen time or addiction to video games
Like alcohol, tobacco screen time or video games could become addictive in the event that it harms your health or relationships and you’re unable to manage it.
A few symptoms might include:
Feeling intensely compelled to screen time or video games. These urges can block other thoughts
Paying for video games or screens even if you’re unable to pay for it
Reducing social or recreational activities as a result of a preference for screens or video games
It’s not uncommon to continue to play video games or engage in screen time when you realize it’s creating problems in your daily life, for example, low performance in school or at work or letting household duties be left to
Showing signs of irritation or anxiety when they are forced to stop playing for short periods of time
Telling others lies about the amount of your usage
It is necessary to increase screen time to achieve the same enjoyment
Disregarding your appearance, for example, your lack of desire to groom or dress
Excessive usage of screens could cause long-term or permanent changes to the brain, requiring intensive medical and behavioral treatment to reverse.
As your child develops and develops, a universal approach to technology doesn’t perform equally well. Different children aren’t like with regard to screens and technology. Certain children are self-regulated and may even put their screens down in order to go out without prompting. Also Read: How to Make a Cloud in Little Alchemy 2?
Some children are more stressed and are more likely to lose tempers when they are spending a lot of time with screens. It’s up to you to determine the amount of media your child plays with throughout the day as well as what’s acceptable.
You might want to apply the same principles to your child’s physical and virtual spaces. In both, be active alongside your kid, show the value of kindness, get involved, and be aware of your child’s buddies and what they do with them.
Keep in mind that the content of media your child is exposed to will be more significant than the kind of technology or time they spend. Make sure that you encourage active screen time instead of the time spent on screens that are passive. Also Read: How to Make Sky in Little Alchemy 2?
Active screen time occurs when you are in contact with others you know, or when you are physically or mentally engaged. For instance, you can engage in educational games or games which require players to construct things together.
Another option is fitness-based games that require players to move when playing. Passive screen time is when you are watching screens that require little cognitive effort such as playing with social media or streaming on the internet, and playing basic games.
Set appropriate limits on your child’s screen time as well as types of video games, particularly in the event that your child’s use of screens hinders their participation in other activities.
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