Problematic gaming prevalent among young adults in Singapore, shows need for ‘third places’: Experts

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the findings point to a deeper need for connection and a “third place” – what urban sociologists call a social space outside home and school or work – with gaming increasingly filling that role for youth here

excessive online gaming marked by symptoms such as loss of control, tolerance and withdrawal

Males were more at risk than females

When people are stressed, they will look for forms of escape...adding that in some countries, this may take the form of alcohol or gambling. But in Singapore, these outlets are relatively costly or restricted

They may not have a good relationship with their family, but online, they may be able to have a different persona,” Ms Lee said. “This makes them feel needed, useful, and they want to continue to play that role

Games help youth with low self-esteem find purpose, he said. “(They) show them that they can learn, and have the potential to do more than what they think they can

Instead of demonising gaming, ... distinguish between healthy gaming – which focuses on mastery, teamwork and connection – and unhealthy gaming, which encourages players to keep playing, often by giving small, frequent rewards and which features extreme violence.

Qn: 'Video games are a threat to society and should be banned.' Do you agree? (NYJC J2 MYE 2025)