my son has a general question

Are video game and computer games effecting his ADHD or do they help him cope? How much is to much?

For me, videogames are a bad idea. I found that I would play the videogames and not do anything else. Videogames were a major distraction for me. Perhaps for others with ADHD, videogames aren't as much of a distraction/hyperfocus problem.

I think as in all things, moderation is the key. As his mother, you will probably notice if they start to take over his life.

My ADHD son plays video and computer games without any trouble. I think they help him cope but it is also something he enjoys very much. Nothing wrong with his attention then either!!

It really depends on the person. Are things he NEEDS to get done being ignored or not done because of his playing? While moderation in things is a good idea, every person's "moderation" definition is different. I know I can't get into a new game or book if I really don't have the time to hyperfocus on it and ignore everything else. But this realization has only come now that I have taken a good, hard look at myself.

Video games are great for coping. On the other hand, they're also great for *avoiding*. I think it's important to monitor his mood when he plays. I play video games all the time to cope. Unfortunately, what I'm coping with is very often high anxiety because of a great amount of work I have to get done for school. I agree with everything that has been said thus far; that moderation is the key, and that he will have his own unique level of what is appropriate. Sometimes for me, two hours of a game could help me work for the rest of the night. Other times, not so much.

studies have shown that some types of video games can increase attentional skills. Obviously it depends which game a child is playing.

I have really bad adhd and add and i consider any activity that i can sit and do without discomfort to be a relief. If he can pay attention to it, i say it's good to help him relax