Technology

Okay I understand that kneejerk "Be a good parent" reaction. But IMO that ship has sailed. And the more we tell parents to "be good parents" the more they think that means attending the local book burning.

Also, no sympathy to game publishers that make their games into dopamine casinos. Back in the good old days, video games (like all other media) was an art form, and the profits came from being a good work of art. Now it's a fucking nightmare capitalist cash cow milking machine (like all other media).

In my opinion (see also Dr Gabor Maté), addictions (which, I also think, can be about petty much anything) are very much mostly attempts to escape pain, when better alternatives do not seem available to a person.

So, yeah, video game addiction can be a thing, and certain game designs exacerbate that (similar to what might fuel gambling addictions and such).

But all of this perspective only distracts from whatever is causing the people/kids pain, makes them seek out games in an addicted fashion in the first place.

Maybe those parents will understand if someone tells them that is the same thing as suing as any alcohol brand for their kid's addiction.

What's next? Parents sue God over masturbation addiction.

The recent lawsuits against gaming companies over 'video game addiction' seem to overlook the importance of parental guidance. It's easier to blame external factors than to address the root causes at home. The principles of the AA twelve steps teach us about taking responsibility and seeking personal growth, which can be applied to parenting as well. Just as recovering from addiction requires commitment and support, guiding children through their challenges needs consistent involvement and understanding. Instead of looking for quick fixes, parents could benefit from actively engaging in their children's lives and setting healthy boundaries around gaming and other activities.