Posted in Technicalon Apr 10, 2007
According to the People’s Daily Online, Internet Game Operators in China have been ordered to install anti-addiction software on the games to prevent minors from gaming more than 3 hours a day.
China got this one right. Teens who spend too much of their time gaming form addictions to their games which curve their personal and career development. By limiting gaming time, China is encouraging teens to learn to do something more productive with their time, such as learn a new skill for form healthy relationships.
Gaming addiction is a topic that I think we will be hearing more and more about. I know in Provo, Utah one of the biggest problems with new marriages is that the husbands spend too much time playing video games and not enough time giving their wifes due attention.
Certain games such as World of Warcraft and Halo 2 are especially addictive. I’ve personally seen some of my friends withdraw from their lives just to be able to play more video games. It is sad to see my friends waste their potential playing online games.
I support China’s decision to limit teens’ access to online games, and I would encourage U.S. lawmakers to consider similar legislation.