ADHD and Video Game Addiction 4 Great Truths

Have you ever wondered why you or someone you know with ADHD seems drawn to video games like a moth to a flame? The connection between ADHD and video game addiction is more than just a casual link; it’s a complex interplay of brain chemistry, psychology, and behavior. Understanding this relationship can shed light on why individuals with ADHD may be more susceptible to excessive gaming and its potential consequences. Conversely, it can illuminate reasons why children who play video games develop ADHD.

ADHD and Video Game Addiction 4 Great Truths

Dear Parents and those interested in Video Game Addiction and ADHD, I wrote this article in a unique way to show you the conventional wisdom and science statements related to this subject so that I could highlight for you what is being hidden with the intent to confuse you about the real relationship between video games and ADHD. Please see my bolded comments in the “Editor’s Notes”

In this article, you’ll dive into the science behind ADHD and video game addiction. We’ll explore the neurochemical factors that make gaming so appealing to those who struggle with attention, examine the psychological aspects that strengthen this bond, and look at the long-term effects of video games on individuals with ADHD. By the end, you’ll have a clearer picture of this intricate connection and what it means for those affected by both ADHD and gaming addiction.

Understanding ADHD and Its Relationship to Gaming

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurobiological condition characterized by developmentally inappropriate levels of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity ¹. These core symptoms can significantly interfere with an individual’s functioning in various domains of life, including academic performance, social relationships, and overall well-being ¹.

Core symptoms of ADHD

The clinical triad consists of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity ¹. Inattention can manifest as difficulty sustaining focus, distractibility, and forgetfulness. Hyperactivity involves excessive motor activity, restlessness, and talkativeness. Impulsivity is characterized by acting without forethought, interrupting others, and difficulty delaying gratification ¹.

Prevalence of gaming addiction in ADHD population

Studies have reported a high prevalence of excessive internet use or gaming in individuals, ranging from 29% to 83.3% ^2 3. This suggests that individuals with ADHD may be more susceptible to developing problematic gaming habits compared to the general population. More compelling, it suggests that technology and gaming use is significantly correlated with increased prevalence in children. This makes sense when you consider that technology is inherently addictive because its designed that way, it conditions children to lower frustration tolerance, shorter attention span, and decreased emotional regulation.

The association between ADHD and gaming disorder is complex and bidirectional. While symptoms can increase the risk of developing addiction, excessive gaming can also exacerbate inattentive symptoms ⁴. This relationship is influenced by various factors, including the type and severity of those symptoms, co-occurring mental health conditions, and environmental factors such as family dynamics and social support ⁵.

Editor’s note: You can see here that the science (paid for by the technology and gaming industries) wants to say its bi-directional but in truth technology and video addiction comes before the development of ADHD. This is common sense and quite obvious. The only reason to claim its bidirectional is to obfuscate the responsibility of technology and video game use for mental health disorders and dysfunction.

Diagnostic criteria for gaming disorder

Gaming disorder is a relatively new diagnosis that has been included in the 11th revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) . The diagnostic criteria for gaming disorder include:

1. Impaired control over gaming
2. Increasing priority given to gaming over other activities
3. Continuation or escalation of gaming despite negative consequences

These symptoms must be present for at least 12 months and cause significant impairment in personal, family, social, educational, occupational, or other important areas of functioning . Editor’s Note: Even the Mental Health Industry doesn’t want to call it an addiction until the addict has been having impaired control over gaming to the point of experiencing negative consequences for 12 months. As you can see, the goal here is not to articulate what is actually healthy to people but to placate special interests and allow the addiction to be internalized over a long period of time.

It is important to note that not all individuals with ADHD who engage in gaming will develop a disorder. However, the presence of symptoms, particularly impulsivity and difficulty with self-regulation, may increase the risk of developing problematic habits ⁶.

Understanding the relationship between these diagnosis is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies. Screening for gaming disorder in individuals with ADHD and addressing both conditions simultaneously may improve overall treatment outcomes and quality of life for affected individuals ⁷.

The Neurochemistry Behind ADHD and Gaming Addiction

The neurochemistry involves alterations in key neurotransmitter systems, particularly dopamine and norepinephrine. These neurochemical imbalances play a crucial role in the development and maintenance of both conditions.

Dopamine, a neurotransmitter involved in reward processing, motivation, and attention, has been implicated in the pathophysiology of ADHD ^8 9. Studies have shown reduced dopamine signaling in brain regions associated with reward and executive function. ¹⁰. This dopaminergic dysfunction may contribute to the impulsivity, inattention, and reward-seeking behaviors.

Similarly, dopamine plays a central role in the development of gaming addiction. Video games activate the brain’s reward system, triggering the release of dopamine . Repeated exposure to these rewards can lead to sensitization of the dopaminergic system, resulting in increased cravings and compulsive behavior . This process is similar to the neurochemical changes observed in substance use disorders ^8 9.

Norepinephrine, another key neurotransmitter, is also implicated. Norepinephrine is involved in arousal, attention, and stress response . Studies have shown altered norepinephrine levels in individuals may contribute to the attentional deficits and hyperactivity associated with the disorder.

Gaming has been shown to increase norepinephrine levels, as evidenced by elevated salivary alpha-amylase (sAA) levels, a marker of norepinephrine activity . The stress and excitement induced by video games can stimulate the peripheral sympathetic system, leading to increased norepinephrine release . This heightened arousal may reinforce compulsive behavior and contribute to the development of addiction.

Brain imaging studies have provided further insights into the neurochemical basis. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies have revealed altered brain activation patterns in individuals, particularly in regions involved in reward processing and executive control ^10 11. These findings suggest that dopaminergic dysfunction may lead to impairments in reward-related decision making and impulse control. Editor’s note: They designed it to do this and now they are pretending to discover that it does this, they already knew, its part of the business model.

Similarly, brain imaging studies in individuals with gaming addiction have shown alterations in brain regions associated with reward, craving, and cognitive control ⁹ . Exposure to gaming cues activates the ventral striatum, a key region in the brain’s reward circuitry, indicating the involvement of dopaminergic mechanisms in gaming addiction .

The neurochemical similarities suggest a potential link between the two conditions. Individuals with ADHD may be more susceptible to developing gaming addiction due to their pre-existing dopaminergic imbalances and reward-seeking tendencies ¹⁰. The instant gratification and stimulation provided by video games may serve as a coping mechanism for individuals with ADHD, leading to excessive gaming and the development of addiction. Editor’s Note: Its not a “potential link’ its an absolute link. There is no question that gaming and technology rewire the brain to act like an AHDH brain. They can’t tell you that because its not good for their business.

Understanding the neurochemistry is crucial for developing effective interventions and treatment strategies. Targeting the dopaminergic and noradrenergic systems through pharmacological and behavioral interventions may help alleviate symptoms of both conditions. Additionally, identifying individuals at risk for gaming addiction can facilitate early intervention and prevention efforts.

Editor’s Note: The most affective and successful treatment strategy is to not permit children with developing brains under the age of 18 from accessing and using technology or video games. Its a 100% successful strategy for restoring parent child relationships and solving video game addiction. At Growth and Change Counseling we can show you how to go about reclaiming your child’s mental energies for healthy relationships while preserving, strengthening, and nurturing a healthy intimate relationship with your child.

In conclusion, the neurochemistry involves complex interactions between dopamine, norepinephrine, and other neurotransmitter systems. These neurochemical imbalances contribute to the impulsivity, reward-seeking behavior, and compulsive gaming associated with both conditions.

Further research is needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms underlying the relationship and to develop targeted interventions that address the neurochemical basis of these disorders. Editor’s Note: The truth, they have the research already because they used it to design these video games to do exactly what its doing to your children. The call for more research is a stalling mechanism so that while they do that your child grows more and more addicted and they make more and more money.

The Frontal Lobe’s Role in ADHD and Video Game Addiction

To grasp the link between ADHD and video game addiction, we need to delve into the workings of the brain, particularly the frontal lobe. In children with ADHD, this crucial part of the brain often operates in a dysregulated manner.

The Frontal Lobe’s Function

The frontal lobe is responsible for several key functions, including attention, organization, and impulse control. When it operates suboptimally due to ADHD, it struggles to maintain focus on tasks that aren’t inherently stimulating, like homework or classwork. This lack of attention isn’t linked to intelligence; rather, the brain is stuck in an inefficient mode characterized by excessive slow brain waves.

Challenges in Connectivity

Additionally, the frontal lobe might suffer from “hypocoherence,” where communication pathways are weak. Think of it as a company with poor interdepartmental communication, leading to inefficiency. In a similar way, when the brain’s communication channels aren’t robust, the frontal lobe’s functioning is compromised, making task execution challenging.

Impact on Video Game Addiction

Video games, with their fast-paced, dynamic environments, offer instant gratification and stimulation that can temporarily compensate for the underperformance of the frontal lobe. For individuals with ADHD, this can make the allure of video games particularly strong, as they provide a level of engagement and focus difficult to achieve in more mundane activities.

In summary, the dysregulation and weak connectivity in the frontal lobe play a pivotal role in the challenges faced by those with ADHD, contributing significantly to the propensity for video game addiction.

How Do Abnormal Brain Wave Patterns Affect Children with ADHD?

Understanding the impact of abnormal brain wave patterns on children with ADHD requires a look into how their brains function differently. For children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), the frontal lobe often experiences dysregulation. This part of the brain, vital for tasks like focusing and planning, may be “stuck” in an unusual state.

1. Slow Brain Waves: Children with ADHD commonly exhibit excessive slow brain waves. This atypical activity makes sustained concentration on tasks, such as homework or schoolwork, particularly challenging for them. Their ability to stay focused on non-preferred tasks is significantly reduced, leading to a need for frequent reminders and redirections from parents or teachers.

2. Weakened Connections: Another issue at play is known as “Hypocoherence.” This term describes the insufficient connection between different regions of the frontal lobe. Imagine a company where only half of the departments communicate effectively—the brain functions similarly. In children with ADHD, these weak connections result in an underpowered and inefficiently functioning brain, regardless of their intelligence.

In summary, the combination of slow brain wave patterns and poor brain region connectivity impacts attention and focus in children with ADHD, necessitating external support and interventions to help manage their symptoms effectively.

What is “Hypocoherence,” and How Does it Relate to ADHD?

“Hypocoherence” describes a scenario where certain communication pathways in the brain aren’t functioning optimally. This inefficiency primarily affects the frontal lobe, leading to underperformance in tasks requiring planning, decision-making, and impulse control.

To visualize this, imagine a company with 19 departments. If 10 departments fail to communicate effectively, the company struggles due to fragmented internal communication. Similarly, in the ADHD brain, the lack of cohesion between parts results in difficulties with attention, organization, and regulation of emotions.

In ADHD, this disjointed communication can manifest as trouble focusing, impulsivity, and challenges with completing tasks. By understanding hypocoherence, we can understand how video game addiction can rewire the brain to produce ADHD symptoms, rooted in the brain’s communication inefficiencies.

Editor’s Note: Human activity always has a growth purpose. We don’t do things just for the sake of doing things. We cannot say that an activity that does not foster growth and development is benign. There is no growth benefit to the human brain in the use of video games. They don’t develop the brain’s intellect, fostering freedom and higher levels of functioning, especially under situations of duress. If one reads a book, one’s brain will grow and develop and strengthen other aspects of the person’s personality, like their character. If someone plays video games, it reinforces impulsiveness, inattention, and relational disconnection in all areas of life outside the world of video games. If a child struggles with frontal lobe functioning, video games won’t improve that functioning. If a child reads books, listen’s to music, engages in creative arts, and plays in nature, it will strengthen their frontal lobe functioning.

Psychological Factors Linking ADHD and Excessive Gaming

Several psychological factors can contribute to the development of excessive gaming habits in individuals with ADHD. The core symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, may make video games particularly appealing and rewarding for these individuals ¹². Editor’s note: I would like to point out that the core symptoms; inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are actually nurtured and induced in a child who plays video games.

The instant gratification and stimulation provided by video games can be especially enticing for those with inattention and low frustration tolerance, who often struggle with delayed gratification and require constant stimulation to maintain focus ⁶. Video games offer a sense of mastery and achievement, allowing individuals to escape reality and feel better about themselves ⁶. Editor’s Note: Again, delayed gratification, constant stimulation, a false sense of mastery and achievement are all induced and nurtured by video games, not by ADHD. Do you see? ADHD are the symptoms of video game addiction, not a seperate interacting condition.

Need for constant stimulation

Individuals may be drawn to video games due to their fast-paced, visually exciting nature and the instant rewards they provide ⁶. The constant stimulation offered by video games can help maintain focus and attention, which may be challenging in other areas of life⁶.

The ability to hyperfocus, or intensely focus on enjoyable activities, is a common trait ⁶. This hyperfocus can lead to prolonged gaming sessions, with the individual becoming so engrossed in the game that they may not notice external distractions or the passage of time ⁶. Editor’s note: Again, these symptoms described here are the result of the systematic conditioning undergone by playing video games.

Impulsivity and risk-taking behaviors

Impulsivity, a core symptom, has been found to be strongly correlated with video game addiction ³. Individuals may have difficulty controlling their impulses and may engage in excessive gaming despite negative consequences ¹³.

The impulsive nature of ADHD can also lead to risk-taking behaviors within video games, such as making in-game purchases or engaging in aggressive or competitive play ¹³. These behaviors can further reinforce the addictive nature of gaming and contribute to the development of problematic habits. Editor’s note: Actually, its the other way around. Playing video games reinforces and produces all of the symptoms and behaviors of ADHD. Its a byproduct of the video game and technology addiction.

Social challenges and online interactions

Children and adolescents often face social challenges and difficulties forming relationships with peers ⁶. Online gaming can provide a platform for social interaction and connection, allowing individuals to make and maintain friendships in a less threatening environment ⁶. Editor’s note: This is a marketing lie. There is no substitute for real in person relationships. Video game and technology addiction is an inherently isolating experience and that is why children with ADHD have so many social problems.

However, the reliance on online interactions through gaming can also lead to avoidance of real-life social situations and further exacerbate social difficulties . The sense of belonging and acceptance found within gaming communities may be particularly appealing for individuals who struggle with social interactions in other contexts. Editor’s note; Video Games and Technology use produce the anti-virtues in children and condition them to be socially unintelligent, ackward, and isolated.

The combination of symptoms and the psychological factors associated with video gaming can create a perfect storm for the development of excessive gaming habits. Understanding these underlying psychological mechanisms is crucial for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies for individuals who are at risk for problematic gaming behaviors.

Long-term Consequences of Gaming Addiction in ADHD Individuals

The long-term consequences of gaming addiction in individuals can be profound and far-reaching. Excessive video game use can negatively impact academic performance, leading to lower grades and a higher risk of dropping out of school ¹⁴. This academic decline may stem from the significant amount of time spent gaming, which takes away from studying and completing assignments.

Occupationally, adults who struggle with gaming addiction may face challenges in maintaining steady employment ⁸. The compulsive need to play video games can interfere with work responsibilities, leading to decreased productivity and potential job loss.

Physical health effects of gaming addiction include an increased risk of obesity due to sedentary behavior and poor dietary habits ⁸. Prolonged gaming sessions can also lead to sleep deprivation, which exacerbates symptoms and overall health ⁶.

Emotional and social development may also be hindered by excessive gaming. Individuals with ADHD who are addicted to video games may struggle with developing and maintaining healthy relationships due to the isolating nature of gaming ¹⁴. The lack of face-to-face social interaction can lead to poor social skills and difficulty in forming meaningful connections with others.

Furthermore, gaming addiction in ADHD individuals is associated with a higher risk of developing other mental health issues such as depression and anxiety ¹⁴. Editor’s note: This is because all of our mental health problems root back to a breakdown in real life relationships; that’s why anxious, addicted, depressed people isolate. Video Game Addiction fosters these other mental health problems too. The combination of ADHD symptoms and the negative consequences of gaming addiction can create a vicious cycle that is difficult to break without proper intervention and support.

Treatment Methods for Helping Children with ADHD and Video Game Addiction

Children with ADHD and video game addiction often face challenges maintaining focus, especially on tasks they find uninteresting. A variety of treatment methods are utilized to assist them in improving this ability:

1. Relational Therapy: This approach helps children and families develop strategies to enhance interpersonal interaction through daily life activities, helping parents and children be meaningfully relationally engaged with each other and fostering motivation in the child for in person relationships and interactions. Techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy can help parents and children to learn to overcome the child’s cravings for video games and establish life patterns conducive to interpersonal health.
2. Diet and Nutrition: Proper nutrition can impact concentration levels. Some treatment plans include dietary adjustments to ensure children receive nutrients that support brain health and stable energy levels.
3. Exercise and Physical Activity: Regular physical activity in nature (the outdoors) is known to boost concentration and mood. Exercise programs, sports, and creative outdoor play are integrated into the child’s life to increase a child’s capacity to focus on tasks through improved physical health and endurance.
4. Structured Routines: Establishing and maintaining consistent daily routines can provide children with a sense of stability, reducing distractions and helping to focus on less preferred tasks.
5. Skill-Building Activities: Engaging children in exercises that are both fun and educational can enhance cognitive skills, making it easier to concentrate on various tasks. Helping the child develop life skills increases self confidence, worth, and internal motivation.

These methods address the core symptoms of ADHD and address the root problems associated with Video Game Addiction, helping children not only manage their condition but thrive in their everyday activities. By incorporating a holistic set of strategies, children can achieve a healthier balance and lead more rewarding lives.

Enhancing Brain Function for Healthier Lives in Children

The best ways to enhance brain function in children is to immerse them in reading books, creative play, art, music, and getting them into nature. Getting your children to do these things separated from technology will make all the difference in the world. Here is how…

• Reading Books: It was Niel Postman in his book “Amusing Ourselves to Death” who highlighted that the quality of a culture is dictated by how that culture receives information. When your child reads books, it develops his intellectual mind, the logical, rational, reasoning mind. It also reinforces virtues. Books require patience and increase frustration tolerance while technology use reinforces lower frustration tolerance and a drive for instant gratification.
• Arts and Music: With better brain function, children are more capable of self-motivation. This internal drive helps them tackle and complete necessary tasks, contributing to academic and personal successes.
• Playing in Nature: There is ample research demonstrating that physical and active play, adventuring, and sports in outdoor environments is really good for cognitive function and regulation

By focusing on these areas that have been proven for centuries to be good for a child’s cognitive development, children will improve their focus, minimize their ADHD sypmtoms, reduce or eliminate their video game addiction and develop healthier, well-rounded lives. Enhancing cognitive function through reading, arts, music, and nature are fundamental and proven strategies for increasing a child’s holistic well-being, enabling them to interact positively with their environment.

Conclusion

The intricate relationship between ADHD and video game addiction sheds light on the complex interplay of brain chemistry, psychology, and behavior. By understanding the neurochemical factors and psychological aspects that strengthen this bond, we can better grasp why individuals with ADHD may be more susceptible to excessive gaming. This knowledge is crucial to develop effective strategies for prevention and intervention, ultimately improving the quality of life for those affected by both conditions.

As we’ve seen, the long-term consequences of gaming addiction in ADHD individuals can be significant, affecting academic performance, occupational success, physical health, and social development. It’s clear that technology is designed to tap into the addictive receptors in the brain, potentially conditioning young minds towards ADHD and gaming addiction. If you’re worried that your child might have ADHD and/or a gaming addiction, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. A simple conversation can be the first step towards understanding and addressing these challenges, helping individuals with ADHD navigate the digital landscape while maintaining a healthy balance in their lives.

FAQs

Do individuals with ADHD face challenges with video game usage?
Yes, individuals with ADHD may spend excessive amounts of time playing video games. It’s important for parents to establish guidelines regarding the duration and timing of gaming. Editor’s Note: Managing video game time and Parental controls are distractions that enable the technology business to continue getting away addicting your children while simultaneously destroying trust and intimacy between you and your children. Additionally, ensuring that video gaming does not replace essential activities such as social interactions, family time, and physical activities is crucial. Editor’s Note: Easy way to ensure this, get rid of video games for children, there is no benefit that outways its detrimental influence on brain development.

How common is gaming addiction among adolescents with ADHD?
Adolescents with ADHD are more likely to engage in pathological video gaming, exhibit a greater loss of control, and experience more conflict and withdrawal symptoms compared to their peers without Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD). Those with both ADHD and IGD tend to show more severe symptoms of inattention, emotional difficulties, and mood dysregulation disorders. Editor’s note: IGD produces ADHD, not the other way around.

What proportion of individuals with ADHD are involved in video gaming?
Research indicates that a significant number of individuals with ADHD are involved in video gaming. Specifically, 59% of those with Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) also have ADHD. Among individuals with ADHD, approximately 74% have IGD, which is notably higher than the 30% prevalence found in those without ADHD. Editor’s Note: Technology induces ADHD, video games are one form of technology, that’s why not everyone with ADHD are gamers.

Why might individuals with ADHD opt for video games over medication?
Individuals with ADHD may prefer video games over medication due to the condition’s impact on the brain’s reward pathways, leading to a constant search for stimulation. Video games can provide an immediate and rewarding stimulation, potentially increasing the release of dopamine in the striatum, which enhances reward dependency. This makes gaming a more appealing option for achieving the desired stimulation. Editor’s Note: There are many side affects to psychotropic medications which at best manage symptoms, I can’t think of anyone that would enjoy going on ADHD medication.

References

[1] – https://www.additudemag.com/study-video-game-addiction-adhd-news/
[2] – https://www.drakeinstitute.com/add-and-adhd-video-games
[3] – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7994285/
[4] – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8987425/
[5] – https://www.additudemag.com/video-game-addiction-signs-causes-treatment/
[6] – https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/childhood-adhd/adhd-and-video-games-is-there-a-link
[7] – https://childmind.org/article/do-video-games-cause-adhd/
[8] – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9600100/
[9] – https://psychcentral.com/adhd/adhd-video-games
[10] – https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0272735823001010
[11] – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6876823/
[12] – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32642820/
[13] – https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2451958822000641
[14] – https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/internet-gaming