Australia Social Media Ban Excludes Gaming

In Australia, gaming disorder is being addressed at the country’s only publicly funded clinic, which treats patients like 15-year-old Sadmir Perviz, who once gamed excessively online. Dr. Daniela Vecchio, who runs the clinic, questions the exclusion of gaming platforms from Australia’s new social media ban for under-16s, citing the interconnected risks of online gaming and social media. Critics argue that gaming platforms pose similar threats, including exposure to harmful content and online predators. The Australian government aims to protect children from cyberbullying and exploitation, yet many experts believe the ban should encompass gaming as well.