We let DS (youngest of three, 12) have way to much screen and video game time from a young age. His father encouraged a youtube channel too. Now he can't read well and has all the signs of addiction: nothing else is as fun, thinks of it often, always, agitated, depressed when deprived. To me it looks like real addiction. He may well have a learning challenge, dyslexia or APD (yes, tested, Auditory Processing difficulty not disorder, touch of dylslexia), or it could be other issues but I think the amount of time and mind his youtube video making and playing take could well be the main problem.
We tried limiting to 2 hours on thurs, friday, saturday but if those 2 hours are denied for some reason, hell to pay. Today he screamed cried and hit me. I told him no more games for three months. I am afraid that will not be enough.
Has anyone else gone cold turkey or somehow come through this mess? Are there any support groups for the kids? Anyone have a child who could friend or meet mine?