Gaming Disorder 101: How to Distinguish Passion from Problem

Gaming disorder is a condition that is recognized by the WHO, and is included in the ICD11. It is increasingly discussed in the popular media, although often in a non-specific way that is conflated with other use of screens, such as use of social media. This issue is being addressed by different countries in a range of different ways, and currently the US has no major regulation that addresses placing limits on gaming for children. This differs drastically from Asia, where China recently placed a limit of 3 hours per week on gaming for adolescents and children under the age of 18. Clearly this issue engenders a lot of discussion, although often the discussion is not based on a strong scientific underpinning. It is our intention to anchor our discussion in science, and to also discuss the limits of conclusions that can be made at this point. We intend to review the current evidence behind best practices for identification of gaming disorder and a review also of risk factors for developing this issue. We will also review prevalence of the issue, and scope this as by far the minority of people exposed to gaming. Included throughout the session will be cases drawn from Dr. Brunner's practice over the last year, as well as the founder of GameQuitters discussing cases seen per his organization in addition to his personal story. Finally, we will include a review of best practices known at this time for treatment, and the current evidence behind these practices.