The rate of gaming addictions among children in China is growing, particularly among the children of migrant workers left in the countryside, the China Youth Daily reported.
According to a report on internet behavior of Chinese adolescents issued by China Internet Network Information Center, there were 79.3 million young internet users in rural areas as of December 2015. The report brought attention to gaming addiction as well.
A research team with China Agricultural University has focused on the relationship between left-behind children in rural areas and internet games for the past two years. Their research shows that easy access to internet cafes is a major contributing factor to gaming addiction. While their computers are not able to run larger, more popular online games, the availability and low price (2 yuan (US$0.28) an hour) of internet cafes make them an enticing distraction to children.
The monotony of village life often results in feelings of loneliness and boredom, according to the team. Playing internet or mobile games offers an escape. The team also found that some left-behind children choose to spend time playing games despite knowing it may be doing more harm than good. Some see playing online games with friends as the best part of their day. Winning can “give them face” among their friends.