Apr 22, 2009 1:00 pm US/Eastern
Video Game Addiction A Serious Problem
BALTIMORE
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You can be a rock star, race against Mario or even go bowling. It may seem like fun and games, but it can actually turn into a major problem.
YOSHIKAZU TSUNO/AFP/Getty Images
You can be a rock star, race against Mario or even go bowling. It may seem like fun and games, but it can actually turn into a major problem, reports CBS station WJZ-TV in Baltimore.
You might love sports or have a passion for music or maybe you're a fan of the action and shoot 'em up games. Whatever you like, chances are there's a video game to fit your personality.
"I find strategy games to be excellent," said gamer Josh Walters.
But a researcher at Iowa State University said for too many young people, video games are more habit than hobby.
"On average, children are playing video games across America about 13 hours a week," said Douglas Gentile, University of Iowa professor.
He says young people are addicted gamers who play about 25 hours a week. The study examined players ages eight to 18. About 12% of the addicted gamers were boys and three percent were girls.
Experts say the amount of time and money you spend will indicate whether you have an addiction.
Click
here to learn more about help for those who are addicted to video games.
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