Factors related to Internet and game addiction among adolescents: A scoping review.

Abstract

Understanding factors influencing Internet and game addiction in children and adolescents is very important to prevent negative consequences; however, the existing factors in the literature remain inconclusive. This study aims to systematically map the existing literature of factors related to Internet and game addiction in adolescents. A scoping review was completed using three databases - Science Direct, PROQUEST Dissertations and Theses, and Google Scholar, which covered the years between 2009 to July 2020. Quality appraisal and data extraction were presented. A content analysis was used to synthesize the results. Ultimately, 62 studies met inclusion criteria. There were 82 associated factors identified and grouped into 11 categories, including (1) socio-demographic characteristics, (2) parental and family factors, (3) device ownership, Internet access and location, social media, and the game itself, (4) personality/traits, psychopathology factors, self-efficacy, (5) education and school factors, (6) perceived enjoyment, (7) perceived benefits, (8) health-compromising behaviors, (9) peers/friends relationships and supports, (10) life dissatisfaction and stress, and (11) cybersafety. Internet and game addiction among adolescents are multifactorial. Nurses should consider the factors identified in this study to provide strategies to prevent and reduce addiction in adolescents.