Introduction
Video game use that is frequent and persistent and causes severe impairment or suffering is known as Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD). Video game addiction is categorized as IGD in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) (Gros et al., 2020). Video game addiction exhibits compulsive behavior, a loss of self-control, and withdrawal symptoms when gaming is stopped, just like other types of addiction. Additionally, it can result in a variety of physical and mental health issues, including obesity, sleep issues, melancholy, and anxiety (Gros et al., 2020). The paper seeks to answer the question “How does video game addiction relate to the brain reward system?”.
The study is motivated by the proliferation of cases of addiction associated with video games over the years. It is vital to understand that not everyone who uses video games compulsively is necessarily addicted and that different personal circumstances, including personal history, social context, and the particular game being played, can influence the emergence of a gaming disease (Young, 2009; Budney et al., 2019). Addiction to video games is often diagnosed and treated using an assortment of psychological treatments, psychotherapy, and self-help techniques. The study of video gaming addiction is essential in establishing its causes, reducing stigma, developing treatment, and improving personal and public health.
The paper employs a general review of the mechanisms of the brain reward system, the existing knowledge about addiction, and the distinction between video game addiction and other addiction types. An exploration of the possible therapies for music-related addiction, as well as the limitations of the current state and methodologies, is also presented. A recommendation of the possible domains and topics of future research is discussed with key emphasis on technology, genetics, neuroplasticity, and the social determinants of health. The conclusion section summarizes the entire paper by reviewing the general context.
Mechanism of the Brain Reward Pathway
The mesolimbic dopamine system, also known as the brain reward pathway, is a complex network of neurons essential for perceiving pleasure and reward. The ventral tegmental area (VTA), the nucleus accumbens (NAc), and the prefrontal cortex are a few of the essential parts of the circuit (Kuss & Griffiths, 2012). The neurotransmitter dopamine is at the center of the brain reward circuit (Kuss & Griffiths, 2012). In the NAc, dopamine attaches to dopamine receptors on the surface of neurons after being released by neurons in the VTA. Other neurotransmitters, such as glutamate and GABA, are eventually released due to this binding, which sets off a chain of events.
A neurotransmitter known as GABA inhibits the firing of neurons in the NAc. Because less GABA is released when dopamine is released and binds to dopamine receptors, the activity of the neurons in the NAc is increased. The sensations of pleasure and reward connected to behaviors like eating, drinking, and socializing are thought to be caused by this heightened activity (Weinstein & Lejoyeux, 2015). Contrarily, glutamate is an excitatory neurotransmitter that makes the NAc’s neurons more active. Dopamine is produced and binds to dopamine receptors, which causes a rise in glutamate release and an increase in the activity of NAc neurons. The figure below illustrates mental stimulation by video gaming equipment.
The brain’s reward circuit also involves the prefrontal cortex, which is essential for goal-directed activity and decision-making. The NAc sends information to the prefrontal cortex, which then uses this data to direct behavior based on the perceived value of various rewards (Kuss & Griffiths, 2012). In a nutshell, the brain reward pathway is a complicated system comprising numerous neurotransmitters and brain regions that cooperate to control how much pleasure and reward we experience. This pathway’s dysfunction has been connected to several mental diseases, such as addiction and depression.
What Is Known About Addiction
The brain’s reward system is a complicated condition that is intimately related to addiction. The processing of happiness and satisfaction in response to diverse stimulation, including substance abuse, is carried out by the reward system, a network of brain regions and neural connections. Dopamine, a neurotransmitter linked to feelings of pleasure and reward, is released more readily when a person uses drugs, which might activate the reward system (Weinstein & Lejoyeux, 2015).
Since the brain links drug usage to a pleasant reward, this can have a strong reinforcing effect and encourage repeat drug use. Repeated drug use over time can alter the brain in ways that can make it harder for a person to derive pleasure and reward from other pursuits. Even in the face of adverse effects, including health issues, financial challenges, and damaged relationships, this can result in a pattern of compulsive drug use.
Addiction comprises a complicated interplay of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors, according to research. For instance, people who have a history of addiction in their families may be more susceptible to developing an addiction themselves. Additionally, even if a person wants to stop using drugs, long-term drug use can alter the brain’s reward system and make it more challenging (Young, 2009). The treatment frequently combines behavioral therapy, medicine, and encouragement from family and friends. It is conceivable to beat dependency and lead a healthy, whole life by tackling the root causes of habit and giving people the resources and assistance they need to control their urges and stay sober.
Difference Between Video Addiction and Other Forms of Addiction
Like other addictions, a video game addiction can have several detrimental effects, such as social isolation, a decline in physical activity, and disregard for significant obligations. However, there are some significant distinctions between addiction to video games and other types of addiction. One distinction is that, unlike drug or alcohol addiction, video game addiction usually does not entail ingesting any substances (Young, 2009). Instead, excessive and compulsive gaming behavior is indicative of video game addiction, which frequently has detrimental effects akin to those of drug addiction.
Another distinction is that, in contrast to other types of addiction, video game addiction might be more challenging to identify and treat because it is frequently perceived as a fun, joyful pastime. This may cause people who are suffering from video game addiction to put off seeking support or assistance until their problem is severe (Kashyap et al., 2020). Additionally, video game addiction may be more common in young individuals who are still learning social and emotional skills and who use video games as a way to relax or deal with stress (Bong et al., 2021). In summary, there are significant differences that should be considered when recognizing and treating those who may be battling with video game addiction, even while there are similarities between video game addiction and other types of addiction.
Studying video game addiction is essential for promoting public health, improving mental health outcomes, facilitating personal development, and promoting responsible gaming practices in the industry. Understanding the possible dangers of excessive gaming is crucial for promoting public health as video games grow more pervasive. Researchers can create effective preventative and treatment techniques by examining the elements that contribute to the emergence of video game addiction. Addiction to video games can have a profound negative influence on mental health, contributing to signs of social isolation, anxiety, and despair. Mental health specialists can offer effective interventions to help people with the disease by identifying the underlying reasons for video game addiction.
Addiction to video games can hinder a person’s personal growth and capacity to accomplish other life goals for those who suffer from it. Researchers can find solutions to assist people in overcoming the condition and leading more fulfilling lives by researching video game addiction. The video game industry must promote appropriate gaming habits and steer clear of encouraging addiction development as it expands. Researchers can assist the gaming business in understanding potential problems connected with gaming and creating measures to reduce those risks by researching video game addiction.
Potential Treatment for Addiction Related to Music
While no specialized therapy or medicine has been created to treat music addiction specifically, various forms of music-infused therapy may help tackle addiction. One such therapy is music therapy, which uses music to assist patients in reaching therapeutic objectives about their physical, emotional, cognitive, and social functioning. Music therapy may be used in addiction treatment to assist patients in controlling cravings and emotions, boosting their mood, and gaining social support.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), a form of talk therapy that aids people in recognizing and altering unfavorable thought and behavior patterns, may also be beneficial in treating music addiction. A variety of addictive behaviors, including those involving music, have been successfully treated using CBT (Bong et al., 2021). For those who are battling with a music addiction, support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous may be beneficial (Budney et al., 2019). People can share their experiences in these organizations’ encouraging environments and gain inspiration and support from others facing comparable difficulties (Oceja et al., 2023).
It is crucial to remember that the most successful rehabilitation for addiction often involves a tailored strategy that takes into consideration the particular requirements and circumstances of each person. For this reason, it is advised that those seeking help for a music addiction speak with a licensed healthcare provider or addiction expert to create a specialized treatment plan.
Limitations of Current State and Methodologies
Although there are many effective treatments for addiction, the existing therapy paradigms have a number of flaws and restrictions. These limitations affect various domains and players in the health sector, cutting through research, policing, and professional practice. It should be noted that all domains rely on underlying academic or scholarly research, which is the root cause of the shortcomings. The following sections describe the most prolific challenges in the current state and methodologies of tackling addiction.
Limited Access to Care
Addiction treatment services are frequently in short supply, especially for specific groups or geographical regions. Individuals may find it challenging to get the care they require to beat addiction as a result. The situation is well established worldwide, putting pressure on those affected and their close family members and guardians (Kashyap et al., 2020). The scholarly community has not formulated an effective implementation plan for a widespread network of facilities to handle the constantly growing number of patients and people living with an addiction people living with a substance use disorder.
High Rates of Relapse
Even among those who have received treatment, addiction is a chronic disorder with a high rate of recurrence. Numerous things, such as stress, peer pressure, and exposure to triggers, might contribute to this. The current information and entertainment trend has led to the proliferation of gadgets, devices, and substances that are addictive to most youth (Oceja et al., 2023). The issues are worsened by the lack of elaborate action plans or policies that guide professionals and victims in rehabilitation, hence the resumption of everyday life.
Stigma and Shame
Addiction is frequently accompanied by a tremendous amount of stigma and shame, which can discourage people from getting help or telling others about their problems. As a result, it could be more challenging to start treatment and keep your sobriety. Scholars and policymakers have failed to develop drastic social frameworks that help patients endure and recover from stigma. Although it is possible to conduct scholarly and social studies and recommend effective remedies to the challenge, the professionals have deliberately avoided the topic (Mathiak et al., 2011). Currently, addiction to video gaming has led to a catastrophic social and economic impact on the lives of people with an addiction, which is almost as disastrous as addiction to drugs.
Limitations of Effective Medication
While drugs can help treat some addictions, such as opioid addiction, they are not always helpful for all people or all addictions. Other types of addiction, for instance, music and video games, do not have any recommended drugs. It puts pressure on the victims as well as the professional therapists to ensure sobriety and normalcy are achieved in the most applicable and cost-effective approach (Silvers et al., 2019). However, the gap in medical efficacy limits the chances of successful therapies for the target patients and victims.
Limited Knowledge of the Neurobiological Pathways Driving Addiction
Despite tremendous advancements in research, much information about the disease is still unknown. The development of focused and efficient treatments may be challenging as a result. The neurological pathways are complicated and challenging for therapists and professionals to understand.
It makes it challenging for the pharmaceutical sector to develop effective drugs that do not have adverse side effects on the well-being of the patients (Silvers et al., 2019). They include the Dopaminergic, Glutamatergic, GABAergic, Endocannabinoid, and Opioidergic pathways, all of which are affected by addiction. However, it should be noted that the different pathways play varied roles in knowledge acquisition and retention, and the impact of addiction is distinct.
While there are many efficient addiction therapies, there are also many restrictions and difficulties related to the present treatment paradigms. To overcome these issues and create more potent addiction treatments, additional studies and funding are required. The studies should pay attention to the substantive effects of respective types of addiction and recommend practical and cost-effective remedies for all populations.
Future Research
Future studies will likely concentrate on several areas of addiction research currently being investigated. Research should be carried out on all topics and domains that relate to or influence addiction among all populations. They include genetics, neuroplasticity, technology, social determinants of health, and precision drugs. Limited literature has been published concerning the contribution of the domains above to addiction. As a result, substantive research will help future scholars, policymakers, community health workers, and individuals take actions that lead to the actualization of everyday life after addictions.
Genetics
Scientists are examining how genes may interact with the environment to either raise or lessen the risk of addiction in order to better understand the role of genetics in addiction susceptibility. Future research may concentrate on pinpointing particular genetic markers that raise the likelihood of addiction. This is due to the limited information on the contribution of genetics and addiction to drugs, substances, or technological devices such as video game consoles.
Neuroplasticity
Researchers are looking into how the brain’s capacity for change and adaptation through time, or neuroplasticity, may play a role in addiction. Future research may concentrate on creating neuroplasticity-promoting treatments to aid in addiction recovery. The studies will pave the way for developing effective drugs and associated therapies. It will also aid in the formulation of policies and standards for the development of rehabilitation centers.
Technology
Technology is growing quickly, and scientists are investigating how new tools like virtual reality and brain-computer interfaces might be used to treat addiction. Upcoming studies might focus on developing and evaluating novel technologies that can be utilized to enhance the results of addiction therapy. It can also focus on the impact of recent technologies on stress and addictions. Integrating technology in policy formulation, equipment manufacturing, and simulation of medical conditions is also a potential field of study.
Social Determinants of Health
Social and economic issues like poverty, trauma, and social isolation are frequently associated with addiction. These are known as social determinants of health. Future research may concentrate on comprehending how these socioeconomic determinants of health affect the outcomes of addiction treatment and risk, as well as on creating interventions that target these underlying causes. Harnessing academic knowledge on the influence of social determinants of health will pave the way for developing lasting solutions to addiction.
Conclusion
In conclusion, video game addiction, often referred to as Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD), is a serious issue that can cause serious harm or distress to a person’s functioning in their personal, social, academic, or professional lives. Currently, there are numerous unresolved issues, especially in limited access to care, high rates of relapse, and stigma and shame. There is insufficient understanding of the neurobiological mechanisms underlying addiction, challenging the development of effective medication.
Future research should be carried out on genetics, neuroplasticity, technology, and the existing social determinants of health. Addiction is dependent on the brain’s perception of pleasure and reward. As a result, the treatment of addiction should emphasize brain performance and perception.
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