How do I get my husband to stop playing World of Warcraft?

Question

He plays constantly, staying up all night. He's on layoff right now, but he does nohing but play this game. He spends more time with the game than with me or the kids. He's ruiing our relationship, and the relationship he has with the kids. How do I make him understand this, and cut back or stop playing?

To the idiot who thinks perhaps I'm not giving it up for my husband enough, our sex life was excellent before we got this stupid game. He won't even come to bed now.

I do have a character on the game, and I actually enjoy playing it. The issue is that he's OBSESSED. He makes no time for anything BUT the game. I was playing for maybe an hour or two on the weekends, but now I feel like I'm just encouraging his addiction.

Answer 1

Go to Fredericks and get some nice lingerie. Do a little dance and invite him. If that does not get his attention... then he is lost.

Answer 2

Been there. I understand what you're talking about completely. First it was Asheron's Call then something else and now WoW. (although now, he makes a conscious effort to limit his time at the game... I think).

It really sucks to have to explain to your grown husband that he is acting like a teenager, and that although you have kids, you don't want a teenager for a husband. You want help doing things and he really needs to pony up, be a man and help out some. The hard part is getting your feelings across so he'll understand you.

It may take a 'we've got to talk about something' comment and then after kids are asleep and you can grab his attention, explain how much it hurts you and the kids to have him emotionally abandon you like he does since he has been playing the game. If it seems like he cares more about the game than his own family, mention it. If it seems like he is neglecting his responsibilities around the house or with you, then mention it. Lay your feelings on the line, and try to get him to at least acknowledge them (he may not understand them, but acknowledgement is a step.)

You can do all of this communication stuff calmly and hopefully, he will come to see that he might have a bit of a problem with the game, and if he doesn't make an effort to treat his family the way they should be, he may find himself in a situation he doesn't really want to be in.

Whatever you do, do it quickly... don't wait for him to get tired of the game, or to realize on his own that he is hurting everyone... it won't happen. After enough time you'll resent him, resent the game and he'll be heading for a situation where he could play all day and all night all on his own. Speak up and let him know how you feel now.

Good luck!
G

Answer 3

Sounds like a bad addiction, so sorry for your frustration it's tough when he's focused on something so unimportant.

I would start playing too...maybe his 'escapism' behavior would change then because the real world would be encroaching on his fantasy/fun world. Maybe that way a dialogue can open up for the two of you about this issue.
Ask him if he'll stop once he finishes the game...then maybe being a little more patient would help.

Or try going on a little weekend get-away if possible to remove him physically from the game... then you could bring it up with him.
I would try to talk as gently as possible because he may be under stress from being laid off and the game gives him a sense of control or power in his life... maybe.

Isn't there a "honey-do" list in your house to occupy his time?

Is there a way to get him out of the house while you stay and try to remove the game from the computer (or whatever) so when he comes back and flips out he may realize how dumb the whole activity is?

You know your husband best... or maybe talk to his mom as a last resort for advice or gather together an intervention...
I know I wouldn't have put up with it as long as you have... it can be achieved with out a full out blow up argument... approach it with love and understanding and be calm... he should come around right?
You may be so wound up by now that it will pose a challenge for you...just remember you love the guy and ask him why he's choosing to do this...and listen, don't judge.

I guess there could be worse things to get addicted to and he is at home...but I have confidence in you that you will discuss it with respect and kindness...it'll be a good lesson for your children too!

Lots of luck to you!

Answer 4

Try to figure out something that you can both do together that is more interesting to him than the game. If you can get him away from it for a few days he will likely lose his momentum and therefore interest in the game. Maybe start a new project around the house or force yourself to be interested in something he likes other than the game like fishing.Also, as hard as it would be, if you were to play the game with him, he might not be so interested in playing if every time he does you want to play it too.

Answer 5

Since he is acting like a child.Sitting around playing games all the time.Treat him like a child and take his game system away.I would either get rid of the game or if you think he will just replace the game.I would get rid of the whole thing.Tell him he cant get a new game or system until he gets and stays game fully employed.My hubby isn't that way with games but my son is.And when he started sitting around and playing his games all the time.And didn't want to do his chores or work.I took both systems their games and every computer game we had in our home and sold them.It has been two years since I had to do that.And you know what I never have to ask him to do his school work or chores.Because he know that I will get rid of his new systems and games in a minute.So like I said if he acts like a child treat him like one.

Answer 6

I'm not sure if you have tried the game before, but my fiance and I both play which makes it our "thing" and we always have something to talk about when we aren't playing.

If you don't like it though, don't play it. Don't make yourself do something you don't want to do. Sometimes all they need is a good talkin' to as well. Don't yell, just explain how you feel.

Also, here's a good site with people that have the same situation you are in:

http://games.groups.yahoo.com/group/WOW_widow/

Answer 7

Tell him he can play only an hour a day.

Or turn computer of and tell him it over now .
He's sounds like he's addicted to video game , and right now it's his whole world.
Be strong and tell him it's you or the game and if it's game then he must leave.

Answer 8

When he gets to level 70.

I have no idea why, but everyone that plays that game gets addicted to it, like a drug.....

Answer 9

Dance around between him and his game naked.