Internet gaming disorder symptoms among Slovenian gamers

Abstract

Abstract Background Problematic use of digital technologies has been attracting extensive amount of attention worldwide, especially (internet) gaming disorder (IGD). Prevalence of IGD varies across studies, depending mostly on the methodology, assessment tool and participant group. Despite numerous research on the topic a strong need to better understand technology's impact on population remains in order to better tackle this public health challenge. Methods National Survey on the Use of Tobacco, Alcohol and Other Drugs was conducted in 2018 on a national representative sample (n = 16,000; age: 15-64 years; 62.4% response rate), using mixed-mode (CAWI and CAPI). The final sample consisted of 9,161 respondents, of those 24.2 % (n = 2,212) reported having played a videogame in the last 12 months (gamers-only sample). Prevalence of IGD symptoms was assessed with 9-item Internet Gaming Disorder Scale-Short-Form using 5-point scale (total score: 9-45 points). Disordered and non-disordered gamers were dichotomized with a cut-off point at 36 points with higher scores indicating higher degree of IGD. Results Data shows 0.4% [95% CI:0.2-0.8] of the Slovenian gamers reported to have symptoms of IGD, whereas higher rates were observed within younger population. Namely, 1.0% [95% CI: 0.2-3.9] within 20-24 year olds and 0.7% [95% CI:0.2-2.2] within 15-19 year old. Men (0.5% [95% CI:0.2-1.2]) reported more IGD symptoms than women (0.1% [95% CI:0.0-0.8]). The share of IGD symptoms was also higher among unemployed and those who live without partner. Conclusions Results obtained in present study are consistent with results of comparable studies conducted in other countries. A relatively low share of IGD symptoms in the sample might be due to a high cut-off point. However, obtained data allows for tailored public health interventions in Slovenia, such as awareness raising and prevention and treatment programmes, as well calls for further analyses on IGD epidemiology and research methodology. Key messages 0.4% of the Slovenian residents, who played videogames in the last 12 months reported to have symptoms of internet gaming disorder, with higher rates observed within younger population. The share of population experiencing symptoms of internet gaming disorder in Slovenia is similar to that of other countries where comparable studies were done.