Internet Gaming Disorder: Exploring the Pattern and Risk Factors
Pages:35-41
With the rapid shift in technology, digital games have become common activities among
adolescents. The problematic use of online or offline video game is termed as Internet
gaming disorder. An increase in gaming behaviour can have severe consequences in
personal and social functioning. Therefore, this study aims to explore the prevalence of
internet gaming disorder and identify its risk factors among adolescents. The present
study was conducted on a cross-sectional sample of 130 adolescents from different
parts of Assam, India. Internet Gaming Disorder Scale–Short-Form was used to assess
the prevalence of internet gaming disorder and risk factors were investigated using
the socio-demographic profile of the participants. Findings revealed that 19% of the
adolescents were borderline disordered gamers and had the potential for developing
internet gaming disorder . Further analysis showed that most of them were male from
the 10th standard. Additionally, risk factor analysis of the socio-demographic factors was
conducted. When compared to developed countries, the figure might appear small but
it is gradually picking up the pace in the country. Hence, it is an alarming call for the
parents, guardians, teachers and counsellors to address this issue before it gets worst.
Keywords: Internet gaming disorder, internet addiction, behavior, adolescents.