When the Game Plays You: How Online Gaming Becomes a Compulsion
Briefly

The article examines the compulsive nature of online gaming, specifically focusing on World of Warcraft (WoW) and how players transition from casual enjoyment to obsession. Co-authored by Jayson Carmona, a researcher who personally experienced the addiction cycle, the study reveals insights into the warning signs of compulsive behavior and paths to recovery. It highlights the struggles faced by those absorbed in online gaming as a means of escape, leading to significant offline consequences and the challenges of regaining control over their lives.
I quit for months and then signed up again... I was obsessing about leveling my new character... what the hell is it about this game!?
I decided to play WoW as part of this research and found the same pattern of the cycle of addiction.
I was feeling inadequate in my current offline hierarchy, escaping to an online gaming hierarchy, allowing online goals to supersede offline goals.
Compulsive video game use resembles typical addictions, as do the paths to recovery.
Read at Psychology Today
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