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Computer game addiction leads to bone destruction in teens
Last reviewed: 02.07.2025
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In Norway, experts studied the health of teenagers who are addicted to computer games or simply spend a lot of time in front of the monitor. As it turned out, such sedentary children have weak bones, unlike their peers who prefer frequent active games in the fresh air. Many parents have already gotten used to the fact that children sit in front of the computer for a long time and spend all their free time at home, not outside, and do not interfere with this.
But experts warn that boys who prefer to spend all their time playing computer games have lower bone mineral density than their peers who spend a lot of time outdoors playing active games. With age, teenagers who are inactive increase the likelihood of developing osteoporosis - a disease that leads to decreased bone density and frequent fractures. Such conclusions were made by Norwegian specialists during their research.
In their study, the specialists examined the health of about a thousand teenagers (girls and boys), aged 15-18 years. Using a special test, the scientists measured the density and thickness of the bones of all participants in the experiment, and also studied the teenagers' lifestyle in more detail through conversations and questionnaires.
As a result of the research, specialists came to the conclusion that boys sit at computers much longer than girls, and this hobby has a negative effect on their bone tissue. As a result of the research, specialists found out that girls have completely different indicators: young girls who spend about six hours at the computer have denser bone tissue, unlike their peers - boys.
Bone mineral density is directly related to the development of osteoporosis and frequent bone fractures. The conducted studies indicate that a sedentary lifestyle of young people has a negative impact on health. Lack of physical activity leads not only to weight loss, but also affects the condition of the bones. At the same time, specialists are interested in the results of the girls and intend to continue their research.
Previous studies have shown that girls who are addicted to social networks tend to be dissatisfied with their appearance, which leads to anorexia. More than 200 girls took part in the research project. During the study, scientists studied the degree of addiction to social networks and how it affects the psyche. In addition, experts wanted to find out how the Internet affects self-esteem. As a result, it turned out that the more a girl spends on social networks, the more susceptible she is to nervous and eating disorders. Low self-esteem is the most common phenomenon among supporters of virtual communication. As experts explain, the reason for the decrease in self-esteem and nervous disorders is the unification of girls into groups of those losing weight, as well as photos of celebrities with an ideal figure. Girls from 12 to 19 years old were at risk.
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