Final answer:
Gentile's definition of addiction to video games and internet use focuses on the compulsive, continued engagement with digital entertainment despite negative consequences, akin to substance addiction. It also emphasizes the potential psychological implications, such as desensitization to violence and hindrance to real-world problem-solving.
Step-by-step explanation:
Gentile's definition of “addiction to video games and internet use” largely centers on the behavioral aspects and psychological implications of excessive gaming and internet activity. It focuses on the compulsive use of digital entertainment, much like substance addiction, which involves continuous engagement with video games or the internet despite the awareness of negative consequences. This form of addiction might impact an individual's ability to deal with real-world challenges and could potentially lead to a preference for virtual accomplishments over tangible achievements in the external world.
The growing trend of sedentary leisure activities like video gaming could contribute to this addiction, potentially desensitizing individuals to violence and impacting social interactions. Moreover, the techno addiction phenomenon implies a societal shift toward dependency on technology, where innovations become entrenched in everyday life and essential for meeting basic needs, leading to a state of near-complete dependence for some individuals.
Discussions around video games like Grand Theft Auto also bring to light the concern of violent content in video games, suggesting the possibility that frequent exposure could increase the ease with which an individual might resort to violent solutions. While video games have an entertainment place, the potential psychological effects underscore the need for moderation and awareness in their use.