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Ghaziabad Sisters' Deaths Linked to Online Korean Game
5 Feb
Summary
- Three sisters died after jumping from their ninth-floor building.
- Police suspect a disagreement over an online Korean game.
- Experts highlight gaming disorder's link to mental health issues.
In a deeply concerning incident, three sisters, aged 12, 14, and 16, died after allegedly jumping from the ninth floor of their Ghaziabad building. Authorities suspect a disagreement over their excessive involvement with an online Korean game may have prompted this tragic act. This event brings renewed focus to gaming disorder, a condition officially recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and included in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD).
Studies indicate a significant percentage of youth suffer from internet addiction, which is closely linked to increased rates of depression and anxiety. Experts explain that the shift to online life, particularly post-COVID-19, has made digital devices nearly constant companions, contributing to addictive behaviors. This excessive screen time can reduce real-world human interaction, affecting the brain's mood-regulating dopaminergic system and leading to detrimental impacts on daily life.
Psychiatrists suggest that problematic gaming often serves as a distraction from underlying psychological distress, such as chronic stress, emotional neglect, or abuse. They describe this phenomenon using the 'ACE' model: Accessibility and Anonymity amplified by AI, Convenience offered by digital devices, and Escape from real-world problems. During adolescence, a vulnerable period of intense emotions and identity formation, digital worlds can offer a tempting refuge, promising instant validation and control.
This easy access to digital platforms, combined with sophisticated algorithms designed for user retention, makes adolescents particularly susceptible. The allure of constant validation on social media and gaming can overshadow real-life challenges. While gaming disorder is recognized as a mental health condition, it requires professional intervention, focusing on family communication and support systems. It's crucial to address not only the gaming behavior but also the deeper issues it may conceal, recognizing that suicides can stem from varied and contextual triggers.
