Arabic version: إدمان امرأة مسنّة على الألعاب يؤثر على علاقات الأسرة
An elderly mother’s gaming addiction has raised concerns among her children about its impact on their family dynamics. The woman is in her 70s and has been engrossed in video games such as Tetris, many different versions of solitaire, and slot machine gambling games, leading to emotional unavailability and strained relationships with her children.
According to The Guardian, the addiction began in the 1990s when the family purchased a desktop computer. Initially, her children found humor in her gaming habits, but they have since recognized the negative effects on their interactions as she often prioritizes her games over family conversations.
The situation has reportedly worsened since the death of the mother’s husband nearly four years ago. Her children express concern that she uses gaming as a coping mechanism to avoid dealing with grief and other emotions. Previous attempts to discuss her gaming habits have been met with dismissal, as she insists it is harmless.
Psychotherapist Rebecca Harris, who is also the manager of the National Centre for Gaming Disorders, noted that such behavior among older individuals is not uncommon. She emphasized that gaming can serve as a coping strategy but can spiral out of control. Harris suggested that compassionate communication is essential when addressing the issue, focusing on enhancing the mother-child relationship rather than solely confronting the gaming habits.
Harris recommended that the children engage their mother in activities that do not involve gaming, potentially helping her reconnect with them and address underlying emotional issues. She also highlighted the importance of understanding the motivations behind the gaming behavior and the need for supportive resources if gambling is involved.
The family is encouraged to explore options for support, such as contacting the National Centre for Gaming Disorders or other resources available for problem gambling. Addressing these concerns thoughtfully may help the family navigate the complexities of their relationships and the emotional challenges they face.
