Dean of Students | Mr Damien Fall

This week, I have included a link to an article from the New York Times addressing the growing global issue of gaming addiction.  Of note are two important points.  Firstly, we are told that the World Health Organisation is set to add ‘Gaming Disorder’ to its International Classification of Diseases.  This means that addiction to video games will become officially recognised as a medical condition.  We need to remember that the gaming industry is a multi-billion dollar juggernaut that invests heavily in designing products that create addiction.  Hence, the frustration that many parents have with their children over their use of games is also a battle with giant corporations that aim to get gamers hooked on their products.  There is evidence to suggest that gaming in moderation can be therapeutic for adolescents and that it is a legitimate ‘hobby’.  The issue is not with participation in gaming; rather, it is when usage becomes excessive that it has a negative impact.  It is no surprise that the gaming industry is less than impressed with the W.H.O. 

The second point to note is that the article quotes Mr Cam Adair from an online support company called Game Quitters.  Many of our parents will remember that Cam was at Terrace earlier this year and spoke to a number of students and parents about gaming addiction.  It is clear that Cam is held in high regard as an expert in the field and we look forward to an ongoing relationship with him.  Cam will return to work with us at Terrace early next year.  Please find the link to the article here.

One reason why Cam suggests kids are defensive when parents want to discuss their usage of games, is that we are unable to speak the language of gaming and are hence seen to have no idea what we are talking about.  Who would have thought it?  A second article I have included below, refers to the enormously popular game Fortnite and gives some excellent information and advice to parents.  One surprising piece of advice is to have a go at playing the game with your son.  Cam suggests that we have the best chance of conversing with our kids about gaming if we can demonstrate an understanding of what they play and why they enjoy it.  The article is well worth a read, particularly with the approach of holidays and the extra time that will become available to our students.  The article can be accessed here and I recommend investing a few minutes to grow your understanding of what is a very important topic.

We are at the end of a hectic term and I know that all in our community are ready for a break or at least a change of pace.  I wish everyone involved in holiday co-curricular programs and tours a safe and enjoyable time.  Thank you to our families for your support across Semester 1 as we endeavoured to help grow our Terrace Gentlemen.  I look forward to continuing the journey next term.