A few points to add from a psychologist (and obviously a gamer myself since I am reading Edge) who does actually specialize in helping those who are self-identified “addicts”:

1) As John Petersen (previous poster) pointed out, perhaps we should be focusing more on finding Brandon than on vilifying video games.

2) I have to respectfully disagree with Dr. Marek’s comment that “the real danger of playing video games is when the child isn't able to differentiate reality from fantasy.” I have worked with many people who are trying to develop healthier / more moderate gaming habits, and I have yet to see anyone who is not able to differentiate fantasy from reality. The vast majority of gamers seem to play responsibly and use gaming as a temporary and enjoyable escape from the real world (similar to how a movie also allows for a temporary escape). In my experience, the real danger is when the game becomes more of a priority than work, school, family, and friends. I’m not referring to the temporary increase in play that often comes with a new game (e.g., spending a weekend immersed in a new game) – I think many gamers can identify with this phenomenon. I’m talking more about the person whose gaming time increases from a few hours per week to 20, 30, 40, or 50 hours per week, lasts for months, and significantly interferes with functioning away from the game (failing classes, poor work performance, serious relationship problems). Whether we call this an “addiction” or something else (I prefer excessive gaming habits) I think most would agree that for *some* people, too much gaming can be a real problem (but so can too much drinking, eating, gambling, watching TV, or even exercise).

3) Admittedly, many psychologists have relatively little experience in this area, but as younger psychologists (who probably grew up with games) join the profession and as the research develops, I think we will have a better understanding of when gaming is problematic and when it isn’t…and how to help if necessary.

4) Can’t say much about the actual case but would like to mention that although losing the Xbox may have been the catlyst for leaving home, there may have been other problems that just havn’t been reported.