Recently, Mrs Monica O'Brien shared with staff here at CBHS the attached newspaper article relating to the latest gaming addiction phenomenon - Fortnite. (Further information about this game can be found in the links below)
It seems only yesterday we were discussing Pokemon Go but that has, as with all trends, subsided and we now have a new one to replace it. Is it that simple though? It is important to understand why what we refer to today as "fads" and "trends" are somewhat different to what we experienced pre-tech - and although all of us reading this article have at some time be caught up in a trend sometime in our life, whether it be marbles, yo-yos, pokemon cards or even footy cards, there is a big difference when it comes to "gaming".
These Internet games we are talking about are designed specifically to target the vulnerable - specifically the adolescent brain - although adults can succumb to the addictive nature of the games as well. These companies are renowned for hiring psychologists and neuroscientists who are versed in the science of addiction. This is the most significant difference between pre-tech "fads" and now. Just as in the 70's and 80's our parents had to put restrictions on the amount of trading we did, or the time spent on TV, or having the best yo-yo, in today's tech climate we need to be even more aware of the level of restrictions needed for the use of devices and specifically game time. However, the big issue is that these games do impact the brain wiring especially in the vulnerable adolescent and it is like having to detox when you start restricting access. Earlier intervention is always more successful.
Below are the links for not only the article mentioned at the beginning of this post but also others that may be of interest. Also, we have included links to support and advice that can be found on our Counselling Services Website in the parent section as well as in the students section.
Can I suggest that you might share these articles with new parents and those with younger children particularly so that when the next trend comes around they are more prepared than we have been.
Please feel free to contact either Alessandro or myself if you need any further support or advice.
FORTNITE
https://www.theguardian.com/games/2018/mar/07/fortnite-battle-royale-parents-guide-video-game-multiplayer-shooter
https://www.news.com.au/technology/home-entertainment/gaming/everything-you-need-to-know-about-fortnite/news-story/cfcff52454b40c7ec2e1ba31791131fc
GAMING ADDICTION
http://theconversation.com/the-business-of-addiction-how-the-video-gaming-industry-is-evolving-to-be-like-the-casino-industry-83361
SUPPORT SERVICES AND FURTHER INFORMATION
http://cbhswebadmin.wixsite.com/counsellingservices/copy-of-cyberbullying
http://cbhswebadmin.wixsite.com/counsellingservices/social-media
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