Maladaptive player-game relationships in problematic gaming and gaming disorder: A systematic review. (November 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: King, Daniel L.; Delfabbro, Paul H.; Perales, Jose C.; Deleuze, Jory; Király, Orsolya; Krossbakken, Elfrid; Billieux, Joël
• Is Part Of: Clinical psychology review. Volume 73(2019)
• Publication Date: 2019-11
• Subjects: Video game -- Gaming disorder -- Problematic gaming -- Structural characteristics -- Addiction; Clinical psychology -- Periodicals; Psychology, Pathological -- Periodicals; Psychotherapy -- Periodicals; Psychology, Clinical -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 616.89
• DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2019.101777
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0272-7358

Abstract

Abstract: While certain player vulnerabilities are known to increase risk of gaming disorder (GD), the topic of maladaptive player × game relationships in GD has received limited attention. This review aimed to: (1) identify game types associated with GD symptomatology; and (2) evaluate individual differences (e.g., age, personality, depression) in the relationship between gaming and GD symptomatology. A systematic review of six databases identified 23 studies of the relations between game types and GD, including 13 studies employing multivariate analyses. Player vulnerabilities implicated in GD included impulsivity, risk-taking, psychopathological symptoms (e.g., depression, anxiety), and stronger gaming motivations (e.g., escapism, achievement). MMORPG involvement had the strongest positive association with GD. Problematic MMORPG players tend to have a socially anxious profile and may be attracted to the work-like roles and conventions of this genre. Problematic players of shooters tend to score higher on measures of sensation-seeking and impulsivity than other players. These findings suggest that GD may develop more readily and at more severe levels in complex, endless, socially driven games, irrespective of person-level characteristics. Some player vulnerabilities may selectively increase risk of GD for certain game types. Further research should investigate different player-game interactions to refine current models and interventions for GD. Highlights: Gaming disorder involves maladaptive player-game relationships. We reviewed 23 empirical studies of player-game interactions related to GD. MMORPG play had the strongest positive association with GD as compared to other games. Higher impulsivity, risk-taking, comorbidity, and game motivations predicted GD. Some player vulnerabilities may selectively increase risk of GD for certain games.