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US Senator Adam Schiff linked election concerns to immigration enforcement. He said lawmakers must ensure that federal agents do not intimidate voters. He also accused Republicans of laying the groundwork to dispute election results if they lose
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When Online Fantasy Turns Into A Dangerous Reality for Teenagers
When Online Fantasy Turns Into A Dangerous Reality for Teenagers
What often begins as harmless screen time can quietly deepen into something far more consuming for young minds. The recent deaths of three teenage girls reportedly linked to their intense involvement with a Korean online role-playing game have once again drawn attention to the growing influence of immersive digital platforms on adolescent behaviour.
According to preliminary findings, the teenagers spent most of their waking hours engaged in the virtual game world following emotionally charged storylines, completing daily tasks, and interacting continuously within the platform. Over time, their real-life routines began to shift. Academic responsibilities were neglected, outdoor activities disappeared, and meaningful conversations with family members became increasingly rare.
Those close to the family later revealed that the girls showed visible distress whenever their phones were taken away. They became anxious, restless, and withdrawn reactions that mental health professionals now increasingly associate with digital dependency. Notes reportedly found after the incident pointed towards emotional pressure and an overwhelming attachment to the online world they had built for themselves.
“Modern online games are no longer just about entertainment," explains By Dr Kunal Bahrani, Chairman and Group Director, Neurology, Yatharth Hospitals. “Many are designed to create deep emotional engagement through storytelling, reward systems, and simulated relationships that make users feel seen, valued, and understood." For teenagers navigating stress, loneliness, or identity-related challenges, such platforms can quickly turn into an escape from reality.
Dr Bahrani adds that the real danger arises when the virtual world becomes a child's primary source of comfort and happiness. “Sudden separation from that space especially without emotional support can trigger panic, mood swings, and impulsive behaviour," he says.
The tragedy has sparked wider conversations among parents, teachers, and counsellors about the urgent need for healthier digital habits. Psychologists emphasise that simply restricting phone use is not enough. “Parents must try to understand what their children are engaging with online, keep communication channels open, and watch closely for early behavioural changes," notes Dr Bahrani.
As digital experiences grow increasingly immersive and emotionally compelling, this heartbreaking episode serves as a sobering reminder that technology while powerful and entertaining must be accompanied by guidance, balance, and emotional awareness. “Behind every screen is a young mind still learning how to cope with emotions, pressure, and real-world challenges," Dr Bahrani concludes.
Source: News18
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