The stigma attached to the word "addict"

The word "addict" has several negative connotations. Drug addicts are instantly labelled as social deviants or criminals. Shopping addicts are characterised as lacking self-control or have some sort of psychological weakness. Yes, work addicts can be framed positively, but in my opinion, you could argue that even this group are stereotyped as cold - neglecting family or other activities. Videogamers themselves suffer some degree of social stigma - due to the stereotypes and problematic media representations.

The notion of the "videogame addict" then carries pretty heavy negative connotations. It's not surprising that descriptions of them employ the "copy and paste" method of drug addict descriptions to stigmatise them. Drawing parallels between videogame addicts and the "nasty, deviant drug addicts" serves to subordinate gamers and adds fuel to anti-gaming arguments. Pointing to similarities makes it easier for people to "see" gamers in a negative light - "violent drug addicts" pose an immediate threat to society and the gamers who supposedly hide within the confines of their houses to play games are just as problematic.

So, adopting the term "problematic use" is not only functional. It also removes the need to use a loaded word such as the "addict"