Gaming, habits and wellbeing
Gaming and children: when does it become a concern?
Playing games can be enjoyable, social and challenging. For some young people, however, controlling gaming becomes difficult and it may interfere with other parts of life. One statistic cannot describe everyone's experience.
What does the large survey tell us?
A WHO Europe/HBSC report based on the 2022 survey of almost 280,000 young people aged 11, 13 and 15 across 44 countries and regions reported that 12% were at risk of problematic gaming. This percentage describes the surveyed population and its measurement method, not all children worldwide.
Does 'at risk' mean a diagnosis?
No. Being identified as at risk using a survey measure is not the same as receiving an individual clinical diagnosis. The survey is useful for understanding population patterns, but cannot assess a particular child without additional context.
What might be more useful than counting hours alone?
Consider whether gaming regularly displaces sleep, school responsibilities, movement or important relationships; whether the young person can stop when they intend; and whether they experience distress or conflict related to gaming. Playing frequently by itself is not necessarily evidence of a disorder.
What could families do?
Ask about the games they enjoy and what the experience gives them. Discuss one concrete difficulty without blame, agree on a manageable routine, and revisit how it works. If gaming causes substantial persistent distress or impaired daily functioning, consider professional advice. These suggestions are practical reflections, not a treatment tested by the HBSC survey.
Explore next
Visit the source library to see related research, and use Learning to Disconnect to explore intentional technology habits.
Original research: WHO Regional Office for Europe / HBSC, 2024 report on the 2022 survey. Sources and limitations are presented so readers can distinguish study findings from our interpretation and practical suggestions.