The relationship between aggression and online video game addiction: a study on massively multiplayer online video game players

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of the present study was to investigate the relationship between aggression and online video game addiction scores of massively multiplayer online video game players. Methods: Study included 205 participants who are playing massively multiplayer online video games more than 12 months. Mean age of the participant was 23.84±4.5. Data were collected via a personal information form consisting of questions about participants’ demographical background, Turkish version of the Buss-Perry Aggression Scale and Internet Addiction Scale. Correlation, t-test and stepwise regression analyses conducted to analyze the data. Results: Analysis indicated that there was a significantly high correlation between aggression scores and video game addiction scores. Males have significantly higher physical aggression scores than females. Age was negatively correlated with total aggression scores and all the subscale scores of Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire (physical aggression, anger, verbal aggression and hostility). There was a negative correlation between age and video game addiction scores. Two subscales (isolation, loss of control) of the addiction scale predicted aggression scores. Conclusion: The present study revealed that there was a significant correlation between aggression and online video game addiction. On the other hand, age was negatively correlated with aggression and video game addiction scores of the participants.