How to Deal With "RuneScape" Game-Addicted Teens
Parents unfamiliar with video games, such as "RuneScape," wonder how their teenagers can possibly spend so much time playing on the computer. Teenagers enjoy the challenge of tackling quests and collecting treasures in a fantasy world, but if a teenager does little else but play "RuneScape," he may have an addiction to the game. Several warning signs let you know if your child needs a break from video games. If he has a "RuneScape" addiction, work with him to cut the time he spends playing the game.
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Instructions
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Determine if Your Teenager is Addicted to "RuneScape"
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Count the hours per week that your teenager plays "RuneScape." If he plays for more than 20 hours per week, he may have an addiction to the game.
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Find out how your teenager spends her time. "RuneScape"-addicted teenagers spend most of their time playing the game. Teenagers who have other hobbies are less likely to experience game addiction.
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Ask your teenager what else he likes to do besides playing "RuneScape." If he has trouble thinking of other interesting activities, this indicates an addiction.
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Watch your teenager's behavior when she is and is not playing "RuneScape." Addicted teenagers are happy when playing the game but become irritable and angry if they are asked to stop. Addicted teenagers may also try to sneak in a game when you are not watching.
Stop "RuneScape" Addiction
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Take the computer out of the teenager's bedroom, if he has one. If you put the computer in the living room or another room where you can see it, you can watch your teenager's game play.
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Disable your home's Internet connection temporarily. "RuneScape" is only available as an online game. If your teenager cannot get online, he cannot play the game.
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Give your teenager a "RuneScape" schedule. Allow her to play the game only during the time you specify. If you catch her playing "RuneScape" outside of that time, remove her playing privileges completely.
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Help your teenager think of things to do besides playing "RuneScape." Come up with new hobbies for him to try by himself or with you.
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Encourage your teenager to make real-life friends. Teenagers who are addicted to "RuneScape" often socialize solely with online friends who also play the game. Face-to-face interaction with real people helps break the dependency on the game.
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Talk to a mental health professional if your teenager refuses to cut down on "RuneScape" playing time. Find a mental health professional who believes that video game addiction is a real problem and who has a clear way to treat it.
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References
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