What Is Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD)?
Internet gaming Disorder, also known as video game addiction, is a term used to describe a pattern of problematic and excessive use of video games or online games, leading to negative consequences such as impaired functioning and distress.
It is considered a behavioral addiction, similar to gambling disorder, as it involves the compulsive use of an activity to the point of causing harm. Internet gaming addiction is a common disorder that frequently coexists with depression, hostility, and social anxiety.
What Are the Symptoms of Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD)?
Depending on the individual and the severity of the disease, Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) symptoms might vary.
The signs, however, can be broadly divided into three groups:
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Impaired control over gaming.
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Increasing priority is given to gaming.
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Continuation or escalation of gaming despite negative consequences.
Here are some of the symptoms of IGD that DSM-5 has suggested, of which at least five or more of the nine criteria should be identified within twelve months to diagnose the individual has IGD.
1. Preoccupation With Gaming: Thinking about gaming always, even when not actively playing.
2. Withdrawal Symptoms: Feeling irritable, restless, or moody when unable to play or when attempting to cut back on gaming.
3. Tolerance: Spending more time gaming to feel the same enjoyment or excitement.
4. Unsuccessful Attempts to Reduce Gaming: Trying to cut back on gaming but being unable to do so or experiencing significant distress when attempting to do so.
5. Loss of Interest in Other Activities: Losing interest in once enjoyable activities to spend more time gaming.
6. Continued Gaming Despite Negative Consequences: Gaming despite its negative effects on relationships, school or work performance, or physical health.
7. Lying About the Extent of Gaming: Concealing the amount of time spent gaming by friends, family, or others.
8. Using Gaming to Escape Negative Emotions: Using gaming to avoid feelings of sadness, anxiety, or depression.
9. Jeopardizing Relationships or Opportunities: Continuing to game despite knowing that it is causing harm to relationships, education, or career opportunities.
What Are the Causes of Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD)?
The causes of Internet gaming disorder (IGD) are complex and multifactorial. Research has suggested that various factors may contribute to the development of IGD, including biological, psychological, and social factors.
Here are some of the potential factors that may contribute to the development of IGD:
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Neurobiological Factors: Some studies have suggested that individuals with IGD may have different brain functions and structures, particularly in regions involved in impulse control, reward processing, and decision-making.
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Psychological Factors: Certain psychological factors, such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and poor coping skills, may contribute to the development of IGD. Individuals with these conditions may play games to escape negative emotions or feel accomplished.
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Environmental Factors: Social and environmental factors, such as peer pressure, family dysfunction, and a lack of social support, may also contribute to the development of IGD.
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Game-Related Factors: Certain aspects of video games, such as the rewarding nature of the gameplay, the social connections formed through online gaming communities, and the immersive nature of some games, may also contribute to the development of IGD.
What Are the Diagnostic Criteria for Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD)?
Gaming disorder is typically identified through a comprehensive assessment conducted by a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. The assessment may include a detailed history of the individual's gaming behavior and an evaluation of their social, psychological, and physical functioning.
The fifth version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) includes the following three criteria, which must be met for a person to be diagnosed with gaming disorder:
1. Impaired Control Over Gaming: This includes having difficulty controlling the frequency, duration, or intensity of gaming, as well as continuing to game despite negative consequences.
2. Increasing Priority Given to Gaming: This includes giving gaming a higher priority than other activities, such as work, school, or social interactions.
3. Continued or Increased Gaming Despite Adverse Effects: This includes continuing to game despite experiencing negative consequences, such as impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.
IGD must be diagnosed once the symptoms have persisted for at least 12 months, though it can be identified sooner in situations of severe impairment.
It is also important to rule out other potential causes of the symptoms, such as substance use, other mental health disorders, or medical conditions. It is worth noting that while IGD is a recognized mental health disorder, most individuals who play video games do not develop gaming disorder.
How to Treat Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD)?
Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) is generally treated with a combination of approaches, including behavioral interventions, medication, and support from family and friends. The disorder's severity and the individual's needs will determine the specific treatment plan.
Deciding to step away from gaming is an excellent strategy to re-establish normal functioning, regulate dopamine levels, and improve quality of life. Those addicted are encouraged to explore other activities and hobbies of interest as an alternative to gaming for at least three weeks to two months.
Some of the IGD management strategies followed by the mental health professional are:
1. Talk Therapy (Psychotherapy): It is the primary treatment option for IGD, which is considered to help the individual overcome addiction.
Psychotherapy refers to a wide range of treatment techniques to assist the individual in identifying and changing troubling emotions, thoughts, and behavioral patterns. Working with a mental health professional (such as a psychologist or psychiatrist) can provide the individual and their family with support, education, and guidance.
2. CBT (Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy): CBT is a type of therapy that assists people in identifying and changing negative thoughts and behaviors. CBT helps individuals develop coping strategies to reduce gaming, improve impulse control, and manage negative emotions in the case of IGD.
3. Family Therapy: Family therapy can be particularly beneficial in treating IGD because it allows family members to collaborate to create a supportive environment that promotes healthy behaviors and reduces gaming triggers.
4. Medication: Medication may be used in some cases to treat co-occurring mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, which may contribute to developing IGD.
5. Self-Help Strategies: Individuals with IGD can benefit from developing self-help strategies to manage stress and promote well-being, such as mindfulness techniques, exercise, and healthy sleeping habits.
Individuals with IGD may benefit from support groups because they provide a sense of community and help reduce feelings of isolation.
Conclusion
Internet Gaming Disorder can lead to a variety of health and relationship issues. Gaming addiction usually affects the younger age group; hence, it is critical to target this age group, which can be called 'high-risk gamers'- due to reduced parental influence at this age.
Addiction begins when the emphasis on gaming shifts from fun to obsession. Therefore, public health initiatives should emphasize 'high-risk gamers.' Also, such individuals may exhibit anxiety, low self-control, and impulsivity. Anyone who spends more time than acceptable on online gaming and maintains it by attending offline gaming meet-ups should be considered potentially addicted, and healthcare counseling has to be provided immediately.
