Computer games and other online activities have become a multibillion dollar industry to rival hollywood. The evidence linking violent videogames with aggressive behaviour is now indisputable. In addition, the growing evidence for the addictive potential of such games is now causing concern amongst many mental health professionals with debate occurring at the highest levels about whether or not internet addiction needs to be formally recognised.

Not surprisingly, the computer game industry and other internet stakeholders are deeply concerned about the social and political ramifications of such developments and the impact on revenue.

The condition known as “pathological internet misuse” is growing so rapidly among adolescents and young adults that it could soon be formally recognised as a mental health disorder.

International mental health experts are considering including “video game addiction and internet addiction” in the next edition of globally recognised Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders “to encourage further study”.

via Teens hooked on the internet | Adelaide Now.