Such dependency could feed other delinquent behaviour such as stealing money to buy new games, truancy, failing to do homework, or simply extreme annoyance when unable to play. Give children educational rather than violent games. Encourage video game playing in groups rather than as a solitary activity. Set time limits on children's playing time. Tell them they can play for a couple of hours after they have done their homework - not before.
Ensure children follow the video game manufacturer's recommendations.
For example, they should sit at least two feet from the screen, play in a well-lit room, never have the screen at maximum brightness, and never play when feeling tired. Finally, if all else fails, take away the games console and give it back on a part-time basis when appropriate. One symptom of over-exposure which parents might pick up on is stiffness in their children's movements. But most terminals are set up for parents, and the children are the ones who make do. She says children as young as seven are suffering from RSI because of overuse of computers at school and in the home.