A computer widow (or widower) is a term for those who have a relationship with a computer user who plays video games (on a console or on the computer), uses the Internet, or creates his/her own programs, paying far more attention to the computer or game than to his/her partner. It is similar in concept and may in some cases have replaced the football widow, which in the UK is often replaced by the "golf widow". The term was in use as early as 1983, with use of bulletin board systems and programming a concern. The possible problems created in family life were being studied by psychologists, with couples coming to them for help. It was commented upon by Phillip Zimbardo as a possible problem which may develop as a result of children growing up around computers, who then may fail to have soci