The World Health Organization‘s classification of gaming disorder as a condition which is capable of debilitating addiction is an important moment in the shifting relationship between technology and society.
Called “Gaming Disorder,” the condition will be added to WHO’s International Classification of Diseases, based on research and the need for treatment around the world.
Dr. Vladimir Poznyak of WHO, there are three major criteria required to diagnosis gaming disorder, CNN reports:
- Gaming takes precedence over other activities, “to the extent that other activities are taken to the periphery,” he said.
- Video games are continued to by played despite negative consequences—i.e. “impaired control of these behaviors,” he said.
- Compulsive gaming leads to significant strain on personal, family, social, educational, or occupational functioning, affecting relationships and health, he said.
A WHO representative estimated 2 to 3 percent of video game players meet the criteria for gaming disorder.
