Aside from the sheer amount of time kids spend on videogames, (which frequently takes away from other things that would be more beneficial to their development), video game use has been linked to a number of worrisome outcomes. Video games have been tied to increases in ADHD, likely because of the physiological effects just discussed. When kids spend too much time immersed in the hyper stimulation of a game, they seem to struggle more paying attention in everyday life under situations that aren’t so stimulating.

Excessive videogame use is also linked to mental health problems. A 2017 study found adolescents who played videogames four or more hours a day for 6 or 7 days a week showed more depressive symptoms than those who played less often. (Jargon, 4-2-2019)