What may seem like a harmless pastime has proven to be psychologically destructive to a whole generation of boys.

“Arousal addictions” are just as powerful as addictions to cigarettes, alcohol, food and heroin and they are getting in the way of school work, relationships and ambitions.

The consequences could be dramatic: The excessive use of video games and online porn in pursuit of the next thing is creating a generation of risk-averse guys who are unable (and unwilling) to navigate the complexities and risks inherent to real-life relationships, school and employment.

Boys seem to be particularly susceptible and are falling behind in school, college admissions, graduations and in the job market.

“Failure to launch” has become a real thing not just a movie.

“Boys Adrift” by Dr. Leonard Sax talks about an epidemic of unmotivated drifters.