Child’s suicide death rekindles debate on ‘gaming disorder’ diagnosis
Adolescent psychiatrist Dr Huu Kim Le said gaming addictions among children had only worsened during the pandemic
The suicide death of a 13-year-old boy has reignited calls to recognise gaming disorder as a specific psychiatric diagnosis.
Oliver Cronin from regional Victoria was described as a “happy and healthy” child with a loving family and wide circle of friends.
But in the year leading up to his death in 2019, his behaviour became “irrational and aggressive” as he became addicted to online multiplayer games, like Minecraft and Fortnite.
Victorian coroner Paresa Spanos said Oliver had never received a diagnosis of a gaming disorder — which is not recognised in the DSM-5 — or another mood disorder.
