ABSTRACT
This chapter provides some guiding principles and common questions that may help parents and therapists implement discussions on video games in the home or office. Questions, concerns, and common misconceptions arise in private practices, from families, and society about video games, video gamers, and what the possible impact they may have upon the players. Video games allow the imagination to grow and take root in the player's experience of life. However, there are instances where the child or adolescent may play too many video games and neglect other aspects of their lives. The concept of video game addiction is far from accurate with percentages in the 30-50%. As video games have become more violent and consumption of these games has risen, the overall violence rates have dropped significantly across the nation. While a person who has ADHD-like symptoms or diagnosis will play video games because the ability to focus on the game, playing can improve attention and reduce impulsivity.
