Can a child be addicted to Fortnite?
Mia Morrison
Updated on May 14, 2026
A 15-year-old boy was hospitalized for two months as a result of an addiction to the online video game Fortnite. A research team from Spain treated the teenager for internet
gaming addiction
Video game addiction (VGA), also known as gaming disorder or internet gaming disorder, is generally defined as the problematic, compulsive use of video games that results in significant impairment to an individual's ability to function in various life domains over a prolonged period of time.
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Does Fortnite affect children's Behaviour?
Children who play “Fortnite” video game cooperatively display greater prosocial behavior afterward. For decades, concerned parents have waged war on violent video games. Years of research, however, have failed to consistently demonstrate a link between violence in video games and violent behavior in young players.Why are children so addicted to Fortnite?
Overall, there are too many kids spending too much time with Fortnite, and there is a reason for this phenomenon. First, the Battle Royale version is free, accessible through many devices. It's very easy to play alongside friends, and because of its popularity, they are there playing.How is Fortnite so addictive?
The same hit as drugs"Video games such as Fortnite are designed to be addictive - they give children a hit of dopamine - also known as 'the reward hormone'," says Elizabeth O'Shea. Dopamine is the same chemical that floods into the brain when people win at gambling, smoke a cigarette or do a line of cocaine.
How do I stop my son being addicted to Fortnite?
Here is a step-by-step list to wean your child off Fortnite, Roblox, and Minecraft.
- Understand why your child likes to play these games.
- Build a rapport with them. ...
- Have conversations around their gaming habits without the intent to modify them.
- Start to implement a plan to wean them off video games.