I turned off my beloved 360 after coming to the realization that I may, and I stress the word MAY, be addicted. My head didn’t explode with this sudden epiphany, but a short conversation with my girlfriend has made me question my hobby. Here’s what was said:
GF: Whatcha gonna do tonight?
Me: Nothing, just fart around the apartment I guess.
GF: So you’re gonna play games all night?
Me: Nah, I don’t know if I really feel like it tonight. Why do you say that?
GF: Well what else would you do?
Ouch. I know she wasn’t trying to be mean, but that kinda hurt. Is playing for 2-3 hours a night too much? Shit, now that I think about it, I played from 9:00pm last night until after 1am. Still, ‘addict’ is too strong of a word. I’m not beggin’ for change on the street so I can get my next fix of Halo. I haven’t lost my job or gained 200 lbs. I just like playing video games, what’s wrong with that?
So I guess my question is, am I a gamer or am I an addict.
February 9, 2008 at 11:20 am
Let me thank you for your blog and my son for directing me to it. I think writing in this format is a great idea, and something I’ve suggested to people working to change a patterned behavior. I’m always struggling with finding ways to help people sort out their gaming habits, where they’d rather be in their life (than in front of the box), and how to make changes that will ultimately give them greater satisfaction. Reading about your experience is very helpful to me; I know it will help others realize how intense the feelings can be, and how difficult it is to retrain the brain. Any feedback you have for me about how to help others would be most welcome as well. People often write me asking for “specifics” but I hate to throw out too much when I don’t really know them.
Best thoughts! SS