# Is Your Child Addicted to Video Games? The 4 Warning Signs l Emotional Dysregulation in Children l E401

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/dysregulated-kids-science-backed-parenting-help-for-behavior-anxiety-adhd-and-more-5936360/is-your-child-addicted-to-video-games-the-4-warning-signs-l-emotional-dysregulation-in-children-l-e401
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/dysregulated-kids-science-backed-parenting-help-for-behavior-anxiety-adhd-and-more-5936360/is-your-child-addicted-to-video-games-the-4-warning-signs-l-emotional-dysregulation-in-children-l-e401.md
Podcast: [Dysregulated Kids: Science-Backed Parenting Help for Behavior, Anxiety, ADHD and More](https://stenobird.com/podcast/dysregulated-kids-science-backed-parenting-help-for-behavior-anxiety-adhd-and-more-5936360)
Published: 2026-04-22T07:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://drroseann.com/podcast/
Audio file: https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/32d3895c-bda6-4ccd-b5cf-1d4bbb606f87.mp3
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Duration seconds: 883

## Resource

Is your child addicted to video games or just overwhelmed? When screens trigger big reactions, it’s often a dysregulated nervous system. Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, expert in Regulation First Parenting™, helps parents decode behavior and build real regulation skills. If turning off a device leads to meltdowns, yelling, or total shutdown, you’re not alone. It’s not bad parenting—it’s a dysregulated brain. In this episode, I’ll help you understand whether it’s true addiction or a nervous system craving stimulation—and what actually helps. Why does my child freak out when I turn off video games? When your child explodes after gaming ends, it’s not just “attitude.” It’s a nervous system crash. Gaming floods the brain with dopamine and adrenaline—so when it stops, the drop can feel like a threat. This is withdrawal from overstimulation, not defiance. What to watch for: Intense rage, panic, or tears—not mild frustration Statements like “You’re ruining my life!” Aggression or total emotional shutdown Real-life example: A parent sets a 10-minute warning, but when time’s up, their child throws the controller and screams. That’s not a discipline issue—it’s dysregulation . How do I know if my child is addicted to video games or just loves them? Great question—and an important distinction. True addiction means loss of control, withdrawal, and life interference. But many kids aren’t addicted—they’re relying on gaming to regulate stress. Red flags of addiction or dependency: Loss of interest in friends, hobbies, or outdoor play Gaming becomes their only focus or topic Constant “I’m bored” without screens A regulated brain can shift activities. A dysregulated one clings tightly to what feels good and predictable. When your child is dysregulated, it’s easy to feel helpless. The Regulat…

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