Excessive Gaming Research Articles

A systematic review of problematic gaming: Escapist strategy to cope with difficult life situations

ABSTRACT Gaming as an increasingly common phenomenon and is frequently used as a coping mechanism during difficult life situations, such as grief and bereavement. This coping usually takes place as an avoidant, escapist strategy, which can lead to problematic or excessive gaming, with harmful outcomes. The aim of this study was to review and collate findings from literature on gaming use as an escapist coping strategy during difficult life situations. A systematic review was carried out with the use of the databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Research Gate, and APA PsycNet, where English language studies published in peer-reviewed journals were perused. The full text of the studies selected were then reviewed and suitability for the present study was checked with the eligibility criteria. Out of the 35 texts fully reviewed, 18 studies were finalised that fit the eligibility criteria, and out of these, three themes were derived – “Problematic online gaming and difficult life situations”, “Problematic online gaming, coping and escapism “, and “Types of gaming”, which demonstrated the psychosocial perspective on gaming used as a coping mechanism for difficult situations. This association is further affected by the type of gaming, whether Massive Multi-player Online Role Playing Games (MMORPG) or otherwise. The aetiology (life situations as a causative factor) and manifestation (gaming used for coping), along with the type of gaming were significantly affected by personal and social factors. The study showed findings that support the view of gaming as an escapist coping strategy in difficult life situations. It is therefore important to look into provisions for better social support and individuals’ psychosocial environment while evolving interventions that enhance coping among gamers.

Recurrence of internet gaming disorder in Korean adolescents: a 24-month follow-up study.

Many adolescents use internet games, and some of them experience psychological and social difficulties due to excessive gaming. Although there have been many studies on the onset and associated factors of internet gaming disorder (IGD) , research focusing specifically on its relapse is scarce. Considering that addictive disorders often have a chronic course with frequent relapse, this study prospectively observed adolescents from the general population to explore IGD recurrence rate and associated factors of recurrence. In this prospective cohort study, from 1587 middle school gaming users, 1452 (91.5%) were followed up at 12months and 24months. The results showed that the cumulative recurrence rate of IGD was 16.1%, which was higher than the initial incidence rate of 3.6%; the adjusted incidence rate ratio was 2.43 with 95% CI 1.21-4.87 (P = 0.012). In addition, starting internet gaming before entering primary school was associated with a higher risk of relapse (P = 0.004). Limiting internet gaming for children before they enter primary school may reduce the risk of relapse of IGD that they may encounter during their adolescent years.

Association between Internet Game Addiction and Social Anxiety Symptoms among Adolescents in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Background: Internet Gaming Addiction (IGA) can have a significant impact on the characteristics of individual gamers and may even be a contributing factor to the development of social anxiety symptoms. This study of adolescent Saudi Arabian Internet gamers examined the influences of Internet gaming time and probable Internet Gaming Disorders (IGDs). It investigated the association between Internet game addiction and social anxiety symptoms among them. Methodology: The cross-sectional survey was conducted from March to June of 2023 among adolescents in the Saudi population. Probable IGD was measured by using the DSM-5 checklist, and the Arabic version of the Social Phobia Inventory (SPIN) was used to evaluate social phobia or anxiety. Result: A total of 764 participants enrolled in the current study, 52% of whom were females, and 48% were males. 42% belonged to the age group 17-18, and 38% were 15-16. 44.8% of participants have a gaming addiction. There was a significant association between social phobia and gaming addiction (p-value ≤0.05). There was a significant association of social phobia with age and gender (p-value≤0.05). Conclusion: The findings imply a significant correlation between IGA and psychological concerns, particularly among male adolescents. Excessive internet gaming use leads to higher levels of social anxiety.

Linear Regression Algorithm the Effect of Game Time on Students' Reading Interest

Education plays an important role in shaping an individual's character and abilities, with students' interest in reading as the main foundation for intellectual development and critical thinking skills. However, in today's digital age, there has been an alarming decline in students' interest in reading, who are more interested in spending their free time playing games than reading. The development of information technology and digital entertainment such as smartphones, tablets, and computers has changed students' habits in utilizing their free time. Playing games is the main choice, while reading interest is marginalized, which has a negative impact on students' literacy skills. The decline in reading interest has serious implications, especially in Indonesia, where the Human Development Index (HDI) in the field of education is still low compared to neighboring Malaysia. This low interest in reading is influenced by the lack of reading habits from an early age and unequal access to education. Good reading skills not only affect academic achievement but also the development of critical, analytical, and creative thinking skills. This study aims to understand the factors that affect students' interest in reading, especially the influence of game time. The Simple Linear Regression method was used to analyze the relationship between game play time and students' reading interest, which provided valuable insights for educators and parents in designing effective educational strategies. The study focused on SMP Negeri 7 Binjai and used a linear regression method to analyze data on students' reading and gaming habits. The results of the study show that excessive game playing time, an average of 9 to 10 hours per day, has an impact on increasing and decreasing students' interest in reading. This data was analyzed using the RapidMiner application, which showed a correlation between playing games and students' reading interest.

Does gaming keep subjects awake?: Subjective and objective sleep parameters following gaming in comparison to a passive control

ObjectivesGaming is a global phenomenon often associated with impaired health and sleep patterns. Although the research activities are growing, the evidence to date is rare due to the various gaming titles and inconsistent study designs. Thus, this study aimed to examine the impact of excessive gaming in the evening on subjective as well as objective sleep parameters by focusing on specific game titles and assessing several evenings/nights using a mixed-methods approach. MethodsA total of 33 experienced young male adults (23.00 ± 3.53 years old, ranked players in League of Legends or Counter-Strike: Global Offensive) took part. The individuals’ sleep parameters were assessed via diary and actigraphy. In randomized order, one week apart and for a duration of 120 min each, two study evenings were spent gaming, while the other two evenings were spent without digital media and gaming, but instead watching a nature documentary. ResultsNo significant difference between the conditions were found (p > 0.05) in either the sleep duration nor the sleep quality. Daytime sleepiness was significantly increased after watching the documentary movie, when compared to gaming (p < 0.001). ConclusionsThese results indicate that, one the one hand, the gaming activity leads to higher arousal and alertness as it requires concentration and dedication. On the other hand, this impact seems only short-term and does not necessarily affect sleep patterns. Future studies are needed to gain deeper insights, especially regarding the long-term health effects of gaming.

Cyberbullying and Internet Gaming Disorders in Pakistan: Strategies for Mitigation

Dear Editor,Cyberbullying and internet gaming disorders (IGDs) have emerged as significant concerns in Pakistan, particularly among adolescents. This editorial explores the prevalence, impacts, and potential interventions for these issues, drawing on recentresearch and literature. The need for a multifaceted approach involving parents, educators, communities, and government is emphasized to protect vulnerable populations and promote a healthier digital environment. The advent of widespread internet access in Pakistan has brought numerous benefits, yet it has also introduced challenges such as cyberbullying andinternet gaming disorders (IGDs). These phenomena have serious implications for the mental health and well-being of adolescents. Given the relative novelty of these issues in the local context and the paucity of research, it is crucial to develop a comprehensive understanding and effective strategies for mitigation. According to a met analysis of earlier research, Asianyouth have a high IGD prevalence 1 Defining Cyberbullying and IGDs Cyberbullying lacks a universally accepted definitiondue to its complexity. Alipan and Skues provide a useful framework, describing it as behavior that intentionally harms victims using information and communication technology, perceived as harmful by victims, and witnessed by bystanders as negative2 . IGDs are recognized in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) as a condition warranting further study. Vulnerability of Adolescents Adolescents are particularly susceptible to cyberbullying and IGDs due to the developmental changes they experience. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends against providing personal mobile phones to children under 13 years old, highlighting their vulnerability to risky behaviors3. The prefrontal cortex, responsible for decision making and impulse control, is not fully developed in adolescents, making them prone to impulsive and risky behaviors, including cyberbullying and excessive gaming.

Understanding Online Gaming Habits and Attitudes among Youth: A FGD Study of Gaming Behaviours, Social Interactions, and Psychological Effects

Asia has one of the highest incidences of online gaming, making it a favourite pastime among youth worldwide. However, research shows that excessive gaming can have detrimental effects on one's health, academic performance, and social development, and the economic relevance of the online gaming industry emphasizes the need to understand the attitudes and behaviours of youth towards online gaming. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the attitudes and habits of youth towards online gaming to develop strategies that promote healthy gaming behaviour. The study used a focus group discussion with three groups of youth, totalling 16 participants. The study found that the participants engaged in prolonged online gaming sessions, and individuals had different motivations for playing games, including relaxation, stress relief, escapism, and achievement. The findings demonstrated the varied ways in which gaming can impact socialization and psychological, both positively and negatively. While gaming can provide relaxation and social connection, it can also lead to negative impacts, such as distraction and addiction. Additionally, the data from the participants in this study reveal a range of potential psychological issues associated with online gaming, including anger management, the conflict between parents and children, addiction, risky behaviours, and compulsive behaviour. The findings of this study can help Malaysian politicians, educators, and parents create measures to encourage healthy gaming behaviours and lessen the harmful effects of excessive gaming. Keywords: Online gaming, gaming behaviours, social interactions, psychological effects, online gaming habits.

Exploring the Impact of Excessive Screen Time, Social Media, and Gaming on Mental Health and Well-being

The modern digital era has brought significant changes to how individuals interact, work, and entertain themselves. Among the most pronounced shifts is the rise in screen time, primarily through social media and gaming. These digital platforms, while offering new avenues for communication, learning, and entertainment, have raised concerns about their potential negative impacts on mental health and well-being. The excessive use of these platforms has led to questions about their association with anxiety, depression, attention deficits, and social isolation. While screens and digital tools are now integral to modern life, it is essential to understand how they affect psychological functioning. This paper explores the existing literature and empirical evidence surrounding excessive screen time, social media usage, and gaming, analyzing their impacts on mental health and overall well-being.

What are escapists made of, and what does it have to do with excessive gambling and gaming?

AbstractResearch shows that escapism and frustration of basic psychological needs are linked with gambling and gaming problems, but an effect of escapism combined with restricted autonomy, competence, and relatedness on excessive gambling and gaming remains unclear. The purpose of this study is to identify shared characteristics of people who engage in escapist behavior and analyze to what extent the interaction of escapism and basic psychological need frustration predicts excessive gambling and gaming. We conducted a five-wave longitudinal survey with Finnish residents aged 18–75 years (n = 1530, 50.33% male) from April 2021 (T1) to April–May 2023 (T5). Measures included the Problem Gambling Severity Index, the ten-item Internet Gaming Disorder Test, and three escapism-specific questions. We analyzed the Basic Psychological Need Satisfaction and Frustration Scale, sociodemographic controls, and personality traits using multilevel regression models. We found that escapism was related to autonomy frustration, competence frustration, male gender, impulsivity, openness, and having a significant other who has experienced gambling problems. Escapism predicted excessive gambling, and competence frustration moderated this association. Escapism also predicted excessive gaming, and autonomy frustration and competence frustration moderated this association. Research on and treatment of excessive gambling and gaming should consider these underlying factors driving escapism.

The Impact of Parenting, Online Game Usage, and Peer Interaction to Elementary School Students' Academic Achievement

This research explores the impact of parenting, online game usage, and peer interaction on elementary school (SD) student’s academic achievement. Various factors often affect academic achievement, including environment, family, digital habits, and social relationships. With the development of technology and the changing dynamics of family, it is vital to understand how these factors mutually interact and affect the student’s academic development. Type research descriptive associative explaining​ the extent of the impact of parenting, online game usage, and peer interaction on elementary school student’s academic achievement in Lubuk Linggau. This research uses a sample of 150 respondents from 3000 elementary school students in Lubuk Linggau. Path analysis uses the SPSS program to process data. The research results show that parenting, online game usage, and peer interaction significantly affect elementary school students' academic achievement. However,​ there are research findings that parents do not affect academic achievement, as mediated by peer interactions. These results show that parents must implement pattern-supportive care​ for student development​, limit excessive online game usage, and monitor interaction with their students' social lives to ensure positive academic achievement

Gaming Disorders: Navigating the Fine Line between Entertainment and Addiction-Gaming History, Health Risks, Social Consequences, and Pathways to Prevention.

The number of people immersed in excessive gaming has increased in this age of rapid digitalization. The World Health Organization and American Psychiatric Association Organization recognize a gaming disorder as a condition that results in significant problems in daily life as a result of excessive gaming. Both organizations emphasize the similarities to behavioral addictions such as gambling. We examined the appropriate usage of video games from the perspectives of health and management in this study. For the general population, video games provide positive impacts such as stress alleviation and memory improvement. Game playing leads to a loss of time and money for the individual. It also has a negative impact on the individual's family and social life, evolving into a social problem. Gaming addiction is often accompanied by psychological disorders and other addictions, and long-term medical treatment, including approaches to the individual's psychological background and cognitive-behavioral therapy, is necessary. Therefore, the prevention of gaming disorder is essential. From a societal standpoint, action is required in three contexts: the government, game developers, and within the household as a whole. Simultaneously, the public needs to understand the positive potential of gaming, such as e-sports.

Switching the Perspective – Excessive Gaming as an Option for Action

Betrachtet man die öffentliche Diskussion um das Thema «Medienabhängigkeit», wird diese vor allem von suchtmedizinischer Seite bestimmt. Dies trifft ebenfalls auf das Phänomen der exzessiven Computerspielnutzung zu. Um einer Pathologisierung entgegenzuwirken, erachten wir es als erkenntnisreich, sich den existierenden Positionen zum Phänomen zu widmen und insbesondere mögliche medienpädagogische Perspektiven zu skizzieren. Mit dem Begriff der «problematischen Medienabhängigkeit» definieren wir einen Arbeitsbegriff entlang einer kritisch-optimistischen anstatt einer kulturpessimistischen Sicht. Die theoretischen Überlegungen zur Notwendigkeit eines solchen Perspektivwechsels werden anhand einer empirischen Untersuchung zur exzessiven Computerspielnutzung verdeutlicht. In den mittels theoretischen Kodierens nach der Grounded Theory ausgewerteten Interviews mit betroffenen Computerspielnutzer:innen zeigt sich, dass die Medienangebote selbst nicht als Ursache, sondern als Lösungsstrategien einer problematischen Medienabhängigkeit zu betrachten sind. Die Vorteile dieses Perspektivwechsels für die medienpädagogische Forschung und Arbeit werden in den abschliessenden Implikationen für die Praxis zusammengefasst.

Investigating the impact of gaming and spatial cognition on laparoscopic surgical skills

Background The purpose of this study was to examine the association between video gaming experience, spatial cognition, and laparoscopic surgical skills in a cohort of 50 medical students. Method Participants were assessed for video gaming experience, spatial cognition, and laparoscopic skills. The number of hours played per week was also recorded. Structural equation modeling was used to determine the relationship between these variables. Results Our findings revealed that video gaming experience and spatial cognition exerted a positive influence on laparoscopic skills. Interestingly, students who excessively indulged in video games without concomitant improvements in spatial cognition experienced a negative impact on their laparoscopic skills. Conclusions These findings underscore the potential of video gaming as a tool for improving surgical skills, but also highlight the potential downsides of excessive gaming. The positive correlation between gaming and surgical skills suggests that video games could be integrated into surgical education. Future research should focus on identifying specific video games that effectively promote visuospatial skills as well as determining the optimal balance between gaming and traditional surgical training.

Adverse Childhood Experiences and Excessive Recreational Screen Time Among Adolescents in the United Kingdom: A National Longitudinal Study

PurposeThis study aimed to investigate the associations between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and excessive recreational screen time. MethodsUsing data from the UK Millennium Cohort Study, we examined the associations of prospectively collected individual ACEs, ACE scores, and poverty with excessive recreational screen time (>4 hours) across different media types. We ran further analyses to investigate sex differences in the associations of ACEs with excessive screen time. The robustness of these associations were tested by controlling for sociodemographic factors. ResultsAmong the included 11,439 adolescents (49.9% boys), those who experienced three or more ACEs were more likely to partake in excessive screen time compared to those with no ACEs after adjusting for covariates. This included recreational internet time at age 14, television time at age 14, electronic game time at ages 14 and 17, and social networking time at ages 14 and 17. We found similar associations between individual ACEs and excessive screen time. For example, parental mental health problems were associated with excessive recreational internet time (odds ratio [OR]: 1.28; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.15, 1.42), excessive television time (OR: 1.14; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.28), and excessive electronic game time (OR: 1.34; 95% CI: 1.16, 1.56) at age 14. Boys showed stronger associations between certain ACEs and excessive screen time compared to girls. DiscussionACEs and poverty are associated with adolescents' later excessive recreational screen time, including excessive time spent on television watching, electronic games, and social networking.

The Study on Impact of Online Games on Children Reference with Case Laws

Online gaming has become a popular form of entertainment for children around the world, including in India. While some studies have suggested that gaming can have positive effects on children's cognitive development and socialisation, there are also concerns about the potential negative impact of excessive gaming on children's health and wellbeing. Additionally, there have been some recent developments related to online gaming and case laws in India that highlight the need for greater awareness and regulation of this growing industry. This study aims to explore the impact of online games on children in India, and to examine the relevant case laws and regulations that govern this industry in the country. To create awareness about the influence of online games on children's life. To prevent the addiction of children in online games. To understand the problem of addiction to online games for children. To analyse the influence of online games on children's life. To know about the case laws related to online games on children. For the purpose of this research, an empirical method was followed and the data was collected through online survey analysis. The SPSS software by IBM was used to calculate the empirical statistics. The sample size was 200. Dependent variables are online games affect mental health of children, online games addiction to happening murder, children are addicted for online games, online games can cause health issues to children, online games affect children's life, effect of playing computer games of children, computer games good for children. Independent variables are Age, Gender. Various tools like Bar graph were used.

Effect of excessive internet gaming on inhibitory control based on resting EEG and ERP

Previous research indicates that individuals with Internet gaming disorder (IGD) show impaired inhibitory control and abnormal EEG/ERP patterns. However, it is unclear how those individuals with excessive Internet game use (EUG) but without addiction differ. This study examined inhibitory control, resting EEG, and ERP in EUG gamers compared to non-gamers. Fifteen participants in each group underwent 4-min eyes-closed EEG recordings and a color-word Stroop task. Results showed no significant differences in reaction time, accuracy, or P3 amplitude between EUG gamers and non-gamers. However, EUG gamers exhibited shortened P3 latency, which may suggest enhanced inhibitory control. Additionally, EUG gamers showed reduced theta and alpha band power during the resting state compared to non-gamers. These findings suggest that excessive gaming without addiction may enhance inhibitory control and influence brain activity differently from IGD.

Compliance and alternative behaviors of heavy gamers in adolescents to Chinese online gaming restriction policy.

In 2021, China implemented a policy to prevent adolescents from excessive online gaming, with the goal of encouraging healthier leisure activities. Three months after this policy was implemented, we conducted a study involving 430 Chinese adolescents who regularly played online games for over two hours daily before the policy. We collected their responses to the restriction, including their compliance with the policy, engagement in undesirable alternative behaviors (e.g., watching short videos), and engagement in desirable alternative behaviors (e.g., playing sports). We also collected data on individual factors, parental technology interference, and feelings of restriction to use as predictors for behaviors, including those related to violating the restriction or watching short videos. A small percentage of heavy gamers violated the restriction by renting others' game accounts (3%) or using a family member's identity (14%), while 59% of the sample shifted to watching short videos. Heavy gamers who lived in rural areas, spent more time on online games prior to the policy, did not feel restricted from playing online games, and experienced parental technology interference were more likely to violate the restriction. Females or those lacking stable hobbies were more inclined to watch short videos. Although the policy restricted heavy gaming, it has also led to increased short video use. Policymakers could explore alternative approaches, such as developing infrastructure that supports outdoor leisure activities in rural areas, encouraging parents to model responsible technology use behaviors, and guiding adolescents to cultivate positive hobbies in their leisure time.

Internalizing personality traits and coping motivations for gaming during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-lagged panel mediation analysis

Anxiety sensitivity and hopelessness are two traits that have been previously linked to increased gaming problems. Research in the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic showed that emotionally vulnerable individuals were turning to video games as a means of coping with their distress. However, more research is needed on the long-term and enduring pathways from internalizing traits to time spent gaming during COVID-19, after the lockdowns and preventative measures had been lifted. As such, the current study employs a multi-wave longitudinal study that predicted that those participants who experience high levels of anxiety sensitivity or hopelessness would use gaming as a means to cope with their emotional discomfort, resulting in increased gaming behaviours. A sample of 1,001 American gamers (Mage = 38.43, SD = 12.11, 53.2% female) completed three surveys through Mechanical Turk, with the first occurring in July 2021, and subsequent surveys spaced three months apart. This study measured participants’ baseline anxiety sensitivity and hopelessness using the Substance Use Risk Profile. At each time point, participants were asked to recall their average time spent gaming over the past month using a Timeline Follow-Back method, and answer questions related to their coping motivations for gaming using the Motives for Online Gaming Questionnaire. Coping motives consistently predicted time spent gaming at the next timepoint. Furthermore, we found evidence that high levels of anxiety sensitivity at baseline predicted greater future time spent gaming at Time 3, through greater coping motives at Time 2. Hopelessness was correlated with coping motives and time spent gaming at baseline, but did not relate to these variables across time. Anxious individuals who were gaming to cope during the COVID-19 pandemic may be at higher risk for excessive gaming. This may be particularly true for individuals who are higher in anxiety sensitivity. Future research should aim to understand how the relationships between anxiety sensitivity, coping motivations, and time spend gaming exist in the context of symptoms of gaming disorder and functional impairments that exist due to excessive gaming.

Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviors Trends Among Black High School Students, 2009–2019

ABSTRACT Purpose: Physical inactivity and sedentary behaviors are key contributors to the rising rates of childhood obesity. Though many adolescents are aware of the benefits of exercise, youth in America are not sufficiently active. This study examined changes in physical activity (PA), physical education (PE), and sedentary behaviors among Black adolescents. Methods: Pooled data from Black high school students (n = 2,233) who completed the Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) from 2009–2019 in Broward County, Florida, were analyzed. Logistic and linear regression models examined trends in selected physical activity indicators. Results: There were no significant changes in recommended physical activity levels (p = .829), daily physical activity (p = .44), PE class attendance (p = .054), or the average number of days of PA engagement (p = .304) for this time period. However, there was a significant decline in daily PE class attendance, the average number of days of PE attendance, and excessive television watching (p < .001). There were also increases in excessive video gaming and computer usage (p = .002). Conclusion: Adolescents’ physical activity behaviors have not declined substantially over the past decade. However, sedentary behaviors, such as computer use and video gaming, have markedly increased. Results presented here should assist in broadening the understanding of Black adolescents’ views on weight and physical activity and developing local programs and interventions to promote regular physical activity aimed at this population.

The associations between autistic characteristics and microtransaction spending

Microtransactions provide optional, virtual, video game goods that, for an additional cost to the player, provide additional game content and alter the gameplay experience. Loot boxes—a specific form of microtransaction—offer randomised rewards in exchange for payment, and are argued to be structurally and psychologically similar to gambling. Nascent research suggests that a link exists between autism and both problematic gaming and problematic gambling. Here, we investigated the relationships between autistic characteristics and experiences, and excessive video gaming and microtransaction expenditure. A sample of 1178 adults from Australia, Aotearoa, and The United States were recruited from Prolific Academic, and completed a survey measuring in-game expenditure, autistic characteristics and experiences, problematic gaming, problematic gambling, and risky loot box use. Analyses showed positive associations between autistic characteristics and experiences with problematic gaming and problem gambling symptomatology. However, results also showed a small, negative association between autistic characteristics and experiences and spending on loot boxes when problem gambling symptoms, problematic gaming, and risky loot box use were statistically controlled for. These results suggest that autistic gamers may be vulnerable to problematic gaming and gambling, but that this effect does not extend to the purchasing of microtransactions.