As technology advances and the gaming world grows, so do the problems associated with it. Many teens play video games on a daily basis, which is far from healthy.

Gaming, in some respects, can be an important outlet for kids, similar to a sport or hobby. It can be seen as a skill-building exercise and can even aid critical thinking.

Unfortunately, the good doesn’t outweigh the bad in this situation.

While the Patriot staff does not recognize gaming as an actual addiction, we do feel that it is something that should be treated delicately. There is nothing about gaming that forces teenagers to pick up a controller, however the lackadaisical attitude kids have toward their responsibilities leads them to forms of entertainment, like video games, that are ultimately a distraction.

Excessive gaming distracts our generation from focusing on realistic goals and building professional habits for the future.

Furthermore, video games have proven to have a significant affect on the habits of teenagers. Those who spend an excessive amount of time playing video games tend to struggle more, socially and academically, than those who play in moderation.

Another problem is that teenagers have an unhealthy tendency to use success in gaming as a false sense of self-satisfaction. For example, someone who plays video games constantly will often see their gaming “achievements” as something to be proud of while their academics begin to slip.

What young adults must realize is that there are some aspects of gaming they could use to their benefit. If done in moderation it can be a great way to learn how to appropriately balance leisure with responsibility.

Gaming is not all bad but it is definitely a problem for today’s youth.