When enjoyed in moderation, video games, and social media can open up a world of wonder offering endless entertainment, imaginative play, and enjoyable social interaction for teens. The immersive online worlds allow for socialization, imaginative play, and feelings of acceptance and success. Unfortunately, the engaging nature and rewards of gaming and online interactions can quickly take control of young minds as they develop an electronic addiction. Developing minds often latch onto the instant gratification provided through video game progress, achievements, and instant online interaction.
Dealing With the Problem
Of course, concerned parents attempt to implement logical strategies to counteract the slide into electronic addiction such as:
- Communicating their concerns
- Limiting phone, online, and game time
- Imposing consequences and rewards
- Implementing passwords
- Controlling accessibility
Other suggestions to create balance may come from concerned counselors or teachers. Despite the best effort of parents, sometimes it’s not enough. If youth are failing to respond, it may be necessary to utilize specialized troubled teen treatment programs to break the cycle of addiction, provide positive support and get your child back on track. Venture Academy provides Internet and gaming treatment services for teens across Canada with locations in British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario.
“Why is my child so obsessed with gaming?”
“Why can’t I turn my child away from the game and get him interested in other things?”
“What does my child have to be connected all the time? Why can’t she just unplug from her friends?”
Electronic Addiction Assessment – Providing Answers
Youth at Venture Academy receive a full psychological 30 Day Assessment and Intervention to identify the root of the problem and why they may be so drawn to electronic devices and are so unwilling to let go.
The assessment allows us to see the big picture, identifying any issues that may be contributing to the concerns as well as noting the strengths and positive attributes of each child. Using this information, an individualized behaviour treatment plan is created which utilizes strengths and strategies to address problematic gaming, Internet addictions, and harmful online communications. As positive and healthy behaviours are developed, the psychological attraction and dependence on gaming and Internet use are eliminated.
Get Help Today for Your Teen’s Electronic Addiction
Venture Academy has been treating unhealthy gaming and Internet behaviours since 2001. We help troubled teens across Canada replace problematic gaming and non-productive and harmful Internet use with healthy lifestyle habits which includes success in school, family relationships, constructive peer relationships, and an all-around desire to make positive choices.
If your teen always seems to be gaming or on the Internet, reach out to our Venture Academy team today. Learn more about how our programs can help your teen replace a dependence on electronic devices with healthy self-esteem. Spending too much time online is a legitimate type of addiction, and we treat the overuse of electronics with the same comprehensive approach that we would to treat any other disease. Contact our team today by calling to get more information about Venture Academy and our innovative programs. Your teen can end their overuse of electronics with our help.
