Parental intervention key to prevent video game and social media addiction

The Tamil Nadu State Child Policy, 2020, which was released on Monday, stated concerns over children getting addicted to video games like PUBG and social media platforms like TikTok. The policy called for parental and governmental intervention to safeguard children’s mental health.

According to mental health experts in the city, children are particularly susceptible to over-use of social media and video games. “The nature of social media and video games is such that they initiate dopamine production. While other activities – such as scoring high marks, or receiving an award – do provide the same, the digital medium is faster and constant,” said Dr Vivian Kapil, a psychiatrist with Ramachandra Hospitals.

These highs are further validated by an appreciative audience and in-built rewards system, said Dr Ennapadam S Krishnamoorthy, founder of Buddhi Clinic. This leads to children returning to the app or game continuously for the gratification.

“However, there needs to be a distinction between when they first get hooked onto it and when it becomes harmful. In the former, it is easier to change behaviour patterns and lessen usage. In the latter case, it is more difficult. This distinction must be taken note of by parents, teachers and the Government to ensure measures are taken only in the latter case,” he said.

Intervention by parents and teachers is the first step to prevent addiction. “By implementing time limits, parents will be able to curb the onset of addictive behaviours. Additionally, digital detoxing, where the individual goes offline for a certain period, is also advisable,” said Dr Paul.

Governments must also take appropriate reactive measures, said Dr Krishnamoorthy. “Governments can work with these service providers to ensure that there is in-built timers. Policies must be made to protect children from the other dangers of social media use,” he said.