- By Yashashvi Tak
- Wed, 04 Feb 2026 04:11 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
In the digital age, online gaming has become hugely popular among children due to its engaging challenges and the excitement they generate. Accessible across PCs, consoles and mobile devices, these games can be played anytime and anywhere, often leading to excessive use. Easy access through smartphones and tablets has increased the risk of addiction, affecting children’s education and social lives.
Ghaziabad Tragedy Raises Alarm
Online gaming has raised fresh concerns after three sisters allegedly died by suicide in Uttar Pradesh’s Ghaziabad. The girls ended their lives by jumping off the ninth floor of the high-rise building they lived in. The girls, Pakhi (12), Prachi (14), and Vishika (16), were residents of Bharat City society under the Tila Mod police station limits. Police said they were reportedly addicted to online mobile games and had stopped attending school regularly.
About Korean Dating Simulation Games
According to reports, the sisters were playing a Korean dating simulation game, a task-based interactive app. Commonly known as Otome or romance simulation games, these apps feature immersive storylines, character-driven romance, and choice-based outcomes. Developed by studios such as Day7 and StoryTaco, they are widely available on platforms like Google Play and the Apple App Store.
Speaking to The Dainik Jagran, Dr Parul Adlakha, Clinical Psychologist and Co-founder of P.E.A.C.E. Solutions, said easy access to smartphones, tablets and gaming consoles, coupled with busy lifestyles and permissive parenting, often leads to excessive gaming among children. Many children use gaming as an escape from academic stress, family conflict or loneliness.
“Also, busy schedules, permissive parenting can result in children spending excessive time gaming without guidance. Children may turn to gaming as an escape from academic pressure, family conflict and sometimes loneliness. Further, unstructured routines, especially after school hours or during holidays can lead to children spending more time on their phones or tablets for excessive gaming. Sometimes, children with attention issues, impulse control issues are more susceptible to gaming addiction,” she said.
Impact on Mental Health
Dr Adlakha noted that excessive gaming may cause mood changes such as irritability, restlessness and reduced attention span. Late-night gaming can disturb sleep, leading to fatigue. Over time, it may affect social skills and weaken emotional connections with family and peers.
“Behavioral changes in children like anger, irritation, restlessness, especially when the device is taken away from them or when they are restricted. Decline in academic performance like falling grades, incomplete school work, lack of interest in going to school. Sleep problems like sleeping late, not being able to get up in the morning, not feeling fresh and feeling fatigued.”
Role of Parents
Parents play one of the most important role in a child's development, but this digital age poses a huge challenge. Dr Adlakha shares some tips for parenting in today's times:
- Parents should maintain open, non-judgmental communication to understand why children turn to gaming.
- They should create a structured daily routine with creative, physical and offline activities can reduce screen dependence.
- Spending quality time with children and modelling balanced screen use is crucial, as children learn by imitation.
- Emotional support during stress, praise for non-gaming activities, and timely professional help can prevent addiction.
Healthy and Balanced Lifestyle
Setting clear screen-time limits, keeping bedrooms screen-free, ensuring adequate sleep, and encouraging outdoor activities help children maintain balance. Avoiding screens during meals and family time also promotes mindfulness and stronger family bonds.
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