Mobile gaming addiction fuels youth crimes

Raj Patil

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

City is witnessing a surge in youth-related crimes, with experts attributing the rise to mobile gaming addiction. The shrinking attention span, now shorter than a goldfish’s, is taking a toll on mental health, leading to depression, aggression and even suicide.

A recent case saw a young professional losing Rs 4 crore in APL betting, exposing the financial and emotional consequences of mobile gaming addiction. PI ( ) warns that gaming addiction is no longer just a personal issue; it’s affecting families and communities, contributing to the growing crime rate. For many young people, addiction starts innocently, with a 22-year-old Abhishek Lahane engineering student sharing how a few hours of gaming turned into skipped meals, poor grades, and strained family bonds. It wasn’t until his parents sought help from a cyber-specialist that he realized the severity of his addiction. The rise in gaming dependency is becoming a major social concern.

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Addiction Risk

Free games and dummy share market platforms, like Aviator and Dream11, are designed to engage users with addictive mechanics and rewards. While they provide a hands-on experience for practice, they often lead to prolonged screen time, creating dependency. Use them for practice, but don’t get addicted. These platforms simulate real-life experiences but may inadvertently foster addictive behavior, affecting users' focus and financial decisions in the long run.

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Screen Detox

Detoxification from mobile usage is crucial for children. Avoid giving them mobiles during meals, as excessive screen time triggers high dopamine secretion, leading to a lack of awareness about their actions, including eating. Over time, this can result in self-control issues, frustration, unusual behavior, and even crime. Prolonged digital exposure may also contribute to conditions like autism."

– Dr. Mansi Karajgaonkar, Clinical Psychologist

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Empowering Education

"Education is a reciprocal journey; when teachers equip students with knowledge, it sparks a cycle of growth. This not only nurtures creativity but also helps reduce dependence on screens. By empowering students, we cultivate a learning environment that encourages both intellectual and emotional development, creating a balanced approach to education and technology."

– Dr. Mirj Kadri, Psychiatrist

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What Can Young People Do?

• Limit Screen Time: Set a daily limit of 1-2 hours for gaming or social media.

• Take Breaks: Follow the 20-20-20 rule to reduce eye strain.

• Spend Time Outdoors: Engage in activities like walking or playing to recharge.

• Set Tech-Free Zones: Keep areas like the dining table free of devices.

Family Digital Detox: Spend one day a week without screens to reconnect.