Internet Gaming Disorder in High-School Adolescents and Related Factors

Abstract

Background: Internet gaming disorder is significantly highlighted to have become a serious public health problem in the world. Objective: It was aimed to determine the prevalence of "Internet Gaming Disorder" in high-school adolescents, and the related factors. Methods: 1484 high school students constituted the sample. Data were collected with the questionnaire form containing socio-demographic characteristics using the "Internet Gaming Disorder Scale" (IGDS Short Form 9). Results: 67.3% of the participants were normal gamers, 24.5% and 8.3% of them were irregular gamers and IGD positive, respectively. IGD positivity was significantly high in males and those who reported a poor school success (p<0.05). Conclusion: High level of internet gaming disorder in those with low school success may be a result of adolescents' desires to experience a low cost excitement, to express themselves and to have a sense of success.