The World Health Organization (WHO) has decided to go forward with a proposal that recognises “gaming disorder” as an illness.
So what is a gaming disorder? According to WHO,
“It is defined as a pattern of gaming behavior characterized by the impaired control over gaming, increasing priority given to gaming over other interest and daily activities, and continuation of gaming despite of any negative consequences.”
Source: Video Game Chronicle
As reported by Venture Beat, the decision to enact the 11th revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) was made by the 194 members of WHO after a period of consideration which began back in June 2018 and has finished yesterday (25 May).
Steps will be taken to put these changes into effect by January 1, 2022.
Source: Times of India
WHO also explained that in order for gaming disorder to be diagnosed,
“The behaviour pattern must be of sufficient severity to result in signigficant impairement in personal, family, social, educational, occupational or other important areas of functioning and would normally have been evident for at least 12 months.”
WHO has advised gamers to be more alert of the time that they spend on gaming, especially if gaming has taken over other daily activities. Do note that playing video games aren’t inherently bad. It only becomes a disorder when physical or psychological health and social functioning is impaired.
Source: FMT
Some experts are worried that this new classification is unnecessary and could lead to video game bans throughout the world. They also feel that this could demonise video games and detract from the positive effects they bring as well.
To all gamers out there, do you think that you are suffering from gaming disorder? Will the decision by WHO hinder you from gaming or will act as a reminder not to focus too much on gaming? Share with us your opinion in the comment section.
Also read: This Groom Loves PUBG So Much, He Played It At His Own Wedding & Ignored His Bride
