MOTIVES OF CHILDREN AND YOUTHS ADDICTED TO ONLINE GAMES FOR COMMITTING CRIMES: A CASE STUDY OF BANGKOK PROBATION OFFICE 11

Abstract

This research aimed to investigate the causes of offenses committed by children and youths due to their online game addiction and propose solutions to this problem. A qualitative research methodology involved a focus group of 10 people and in-depth interviews with relevant individuals, focusing on juveniles released by juvenile courts with probationary conditions. The results indicated that 1) children and youths who are addicted to online games may be motivated to engage in delinquent behavior due to their immature mental state and ongoing skill and behavior development; 2) Society within the game, including long-term interactions with peers and frequently learning each other's in-game behaviors. Prevention and corrective measures include the following: 1) Families should restrict access to apparatus or regulate the type and nature of activities, as well as establish standard norms; 2) Agencies, organizations, policies, and guidelines for addressing online game addiction among children and youths by regulating online game service providers and educating parents and guardians about the benefits and risks of online games, as well as the community at large to collaborate between the justice system and relevant agencies to combat and prevent video game addiction among children. The operational recommendations are as follows: 1. The Department of Probation should implement screening inquiries or assessments for identifying children and youths with online game addiction. Parents or guardians should monitor the behavior, the type of gameplay and the time spent playing. The policy recommendations are as follows: The government needs to create laws and regulations to govern online gaming. Along with this, guidelines should be implemented to regulate the spread of news related to gaming-related crimes. Additionally, the government should educate people about the benefits and drawbacks of online activities to increase awareness.