Gaming addiction: Are we asking the right questions?

The World Health Organization (WHO) has decided to include "gaming disorders" in its 11th revision of internationally recognised diseases. This addiction is described by the WHO as "a pattern of persistent or recurrent gaming behaviour" that may become so extensive that it "takes precedence over other life interests". It is quite a dystopian future where AI is used to trick us and convince us to use more money. The announcement has been met by criticisms from within both the gaming industry and experts within the field of psychology, with counterclaims stating that the addiction outlines put forth by the WHO are simply not aligned with the nature of addiction. However, as those within gaming are still set to see billions of dollars roll into the industry this year, exclusive gaming addiction programmes are also providing healthcare providers and insurance companies with an unexpected niche now that gaming addiction is classed as a mental health disorder.