Video Game Playing and Internet Gaming Disorder: A Profile of Young Adolescents

While historically there has been minimal concern about behavioral addictions in young adolescents, there is currently substantial social alarm regarding the use of video game playing (VGP) [1], and particularly online gaming. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, DSM-5 [1], defined internet gaming disorder (IGD) as “a pattern of excessive and prolonged Internet gaming that results in a cluster of cognitive and behavioral symptoms, including progressive loss of control over gaming, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms, analogous to the symptoms of substance use disorders”. The DSM-5 [1] tried to shed light on this issue by including IGD among the “categories under study”, highlighting nine diagnostic criteria. At least five must be met to establish a diagnosis of IGD. For several reasons, this contribution, although important, does not overcome the problem of distinguishing “normal” from “abnormal”. One such reason is the lack of precision in some criteria, such as criterion A “Persistent or repeated use of the Internet to play games…” and criterion 6 “Continuous excessive use of games…” [1]. What criterion tells us whether the VGP is persistent, excessive, or continuous? In addition, these nine criteria do not profile IGD equally. Thus, Király et al. [2] found that the criteria of “continuation”, “concern”, “negative consequences”, and “escape” were associated with less severe IGD, while “tolerance”, “loss of control”, “abandonment of other activities”, and “disappointment” were associated with more serious levels of IGD. Finally, “worry” and “escape” provided little information. Alternatively, Rehbein et al. [3] found that the symptoms relating to “abandonment of other activities”, “tolerance”, and “withdrawal” were the most relevant to the diagnosis of IGD. The value of distinguishing online and offline VGP behavior has also been questioned [4]. In addition, seven of the nine criteria for IGD are identical or derived from those for Pathological Gaming, which questions their specificity and precision. Finally, the consideration of IGD as an addiction and its diagnosis have caused controversy [5,6,7,8].

This imprecision in the boundaries of the problem (IGD, addiction, or problematic VGP) makes it easier for studies aiming to identify its magnitude to produce very different percentages of IGD prevalence: 1.2% of German students [3]; 1.6% (5.1% at risk of IGD) in a sample of young adolescents across five European countries [9]; 5.7% when examining IGD among Dutch students [10]; 34.0% in Taiwan [11]; and 5.0% in Spain [12]. A meta-analysis [13] estimates that the prevalence of IGD is between 0.7% and 15.6%. In addition to the imprecision of the DSM-5 criteria, this difference in results comes from the possible range of diagnoses (IGD, addiction to VG, or problematic VGP) and the use of different assessment tools. Reviews of VGP assessment tools detected significant problems, concluding that the instruments used are generally inconsistent [14,15,16].

The number of hours they play, something that is easy to verify, along with the level of attention absorbed, stand out, as observed in the development of other addictions, where time spent on smartphones emerges as the most influential predictor of social media addiction [17]. Young adolescents have a fundamental need for connection and a sense of belonging to a group, and they resort to the internet to establish connections. Therefore, this resource is an effective means to achieve their objective [17,18]. However, there are other aspects, such as whether the VGP affects their school work, replaces other activities, or restricts their social relationships, which may be also relevant in distinguishing “normal” from “problematic” behavior. Attempts have been made to establish the criteria for making this distinction. Thus, equating “problematic” VGP to addiction highlights six dimensions to identify it: salience, mood alteration, tolerance, withdrawal, conflict, and relapse [19]. Subsequently, Demetrovics et al. [20] revised these dimensions as follows: preoccupation, excessive use, immersion, social isolation, interpersonal conflicts, and withdrawal.

Despite the problems in specifying when VGP behavior is “normal”, some figures do stand out:

Although these figures can provide some information about VGP among young adolescents, there are large variations, and the landscape is not stable. Therefore, figures from the previous five years may not be very descriptive of the current situation.

Given these considerations, it seemed important to identify the current normal behavior of young adolescents when playing VG, both online and offline. This would allow us to establish what is the standard “norm” or “average” for VGP, which can then be used as a benchmark against which to compare the VGP behavior of any young adolescents. Given these considerations, this study was designed to profile the VGP behavior of young adolescents of 12 to 16 years of age attending school in Madrid. Furthermore, we studied the relationship between some characteristics of this profile and IGD.

In total, 1516 participants (75.0%) stated that they played VG, with a greater proportion for males (96.6%) than females (51.2%), X² (1) = 554.65, p ˂ 0.001, C = 0.464. There were no differences in average age between players and non-players, t(897.24) = −1.73, p = 0.084. The IGD scores were significantly higher for male participants (M = 17.41, SD = 6.36) than female ones (M = 13.52, SD = 5.17), t(1411.15) = 14.82, p < 0.001, r² = 0.078. This was to be expected, due to the differences in gender found in the validation process of the IGDS9-SF [28]. However, within the sample range, age was not significantly related to the IGDS9-SF, r = 0.008, p = 0.742.

Table 2 shows how many types of VG they played. The number of different types were positively correlated with the IGD score, for male, r = 0.137, p ˂ 0.001, r² = 0.020, as well as for female participants, r = 0.241, p ˂ 0.001, r² = 0.058. The most frequent types of VG were “Action and Adventure”, “Sports”, and “Massively Multiplayer Online (MMO)”. Table 3 shows the frequency of use of each type of VG, the proportion of males being significantly higher in 7 of the 13 games.

Table 4 and Table 5 show data on gaming frequency, involvement, and preferences, by gender. Table 4 shows the favorite types of games. Participants could indicate up to three different types as a favorite game. What stands out is the lack of dispersion; two types of game were within the favorites for 58.4% and 42.9% of the players.

Table 5 shows the frequency of gaming in terms of days per week, finding significant relationships between the gender of the participants and the number of days on which they play each week. More hours of playing VG per week were associated with a higher IGDS9-SF score; we found a significant linear relationship for male, F(1, 1017) = 83.62, p < 0.001, η² = 0.075, and female participants, F(1, 484) = 103.48, p < 0.001, η² = 0.165.

Table 6 shows the preferences of the players depending on the device, the place where they played, online/offline mode, and the company. Table 7 shows the statistics for IGDS9-SF scores by gaming preferences. One-way ANOVA was carried out to assess the differences in the scale scores for each VG modality. We found significant IGDS9-SF score differences in all tests, except for the preferred place in the woman subsample. The difference in IGD for company in the woman subsample stands out. With a 6.4% of variance accounted for, the IGDS9-SF scores ranged from 11.2 (company of one person online) to 19 (company of a group online). On the IGDS9-SF scoring scale [28], a score of 11 equals a percentile score of 45, while a score of 19 is a percentile score between 85 to 90 in IGD. For ease of reference and the interpretation of the results, we have included the scoring scale in Appendix A.

This study characterized video game player profiles from a substantial sample of pupils of both sexes, aged between 12 and 16 years, representing schools in Madrid. We also explored the relationship of these profiles with internet gaming disorder (IGD).

In a larger initial sample, three-quarters of the participants reported playing video games (VG), a percentage higher than the 60.5% and 60% found in other studies [9,21]. This difference may be attributed, among other factors, to the increasing prevalence of VG among young adolescents over time. Nevertheless, the similarity of the figures supports the sample’s representativeness and underscores the universality of VG use in our socio-cultural environment.

A higher proportion of males than females reported playing VG (96.6% compared to 51.2%), a more significant gap than in previous studies (e.g., 69.1% males compared to 50.4% females [22]), although this study employed a markedly distinct sample. The figures indicate that players switch between different types of games, with males using a greater variety than females (see Table 2). Action and Adventure games are the most frequently played, being the only types played by more than half of all participants (see Table 3). These are followed by Sports and MMO, with the others remaining below 40% in terms of use, and 8 of the 13 even being below 30%. These statistics contrast with those of German adolescents [21], who preferred, in this order, shooting games, single-player games, and MMOs. Notably, MMO games, considered in some studies [9] to be most highly related to IGD, are among the most frequently played VG in both that study and this one.

Table 4 displays the preferred game types, aligning with usage frequency but with greater variety in choices. Action and Adventure are the only ones favored by more than 50% of players; only four types are favored by at least 21% of participants. Generally, participants primarily play their favorite video games, along with some others.

Regarding VGP by gender, all types of games are played by a greater percentage of males than females, except for Simulators, Puzzle games, and Music and rhythm. Significant differences due to gender exist in 9 of the 13 types. The trend is clear, as in Action and Fighting games (Action, Sports, MMO, Strategy, Fighting, Shooting, and Role-Playing), the participation rates of males are at least triple those of females. In Simulators and Puzzle games, the participation rates of females are triple those of males. It is evident that males and females play different VG.

Although the number of days per week players play varies widely, the average indicates that they spend more days not playing than they spend playing. The average number of days suggests that they primarily play on weekends (Friday–Sunday), which would mean less interference with their academic work, although the study did not investigate this detail. Differences exist according to gender, with the average for males being one day longer than that for females. A positive relationship between age and playing days also appeared, r = 0.14.

Although it is impossible to establish the exact average number of hours they play, considering the hours are grouped into categories, this can be estimated at around 7.30 h per week (see Table 5). If this average is divided between the 3.30 days on which they say they play, we find moderate values, around 2.20 h a day, on the days they play. Although the averages are moderate, 55.4% say they play less than 6 h per week, 2.7% admit to playing more than 30 h a week, and 4% more than 25 h.

These averages change when considering gender, as the average (estimated) playing time for males is 9.36 h, compared to 4.03 for females. There are also significant differences in the percentage of males (11.6%) and females (1.2%) who play more than 16 h per week and more than 25 h per week (3.7% of males and 0.3% of females). In other words, the percentage of females who play VG is much lower, and those who play spend less time playing than males. The magnitudes indicated in this study seem lower than those in previous studies. Thus, Mérelle et al. [10] indicated an average of 15 h per week for males and 7 h for females, although their sample covers younger ages (12–15 years). Alternatively, Kiràly et al. [22] found that 33.8% play more than 3 h a day and 11.2% more than 7 h. Regarding the hours of VGP, Papay et al. [23] indicated that players at a high risk of developing IGD are mainly males who play for more than 5 h a day. The participants in our study, on average, play significantly fewer hours than those considered potentially problematic, raising the question of whether playing less than 25 h per week (in our study, 20 h) can be deemed “normal” or “non-problematic.” Age showed a positive relationship with the number of hours played, but it only accounted for 2% of the explained variance (r = 0.14, r² = 0.020).

In terms of gaming devices, the preferred choice is video game consoles, followed by mobile phones (refer to Table 6). When considering gender, differences emerge; males lean toward playing on a video game console, while females show a preference for mobile phones. The use of mobile phones raises concerns due to their portability, enabling young adolescents to play anywhere. In contrast, video game consoles are a less conspicuous option outside their usual location. The increasing speed, reliability, and lower cost of internet connections from mobile phones suggest a growing preference for this device. However, it is foreseeable that traditional devices like video game consoles and computers may see a reduction in use. The minimal preference for TVs as gaming devices may be attributed to the limited penetration of smart TVs and their lack of portability.

The preferred gaming location is at home (87.6%), with other places receiving values below 5%, and no significant differences based on gender. This preference likely stems from the cost advantages and Wi-Fi speed, compared to the restrictive nature and cost of mobile data. It may also be influenced by the limited portability of video game consoles. Notably, participants prefer playing at home, and they tend to use mobile phones more than other devices like computers, tablets, or TVs, which offer larger and better screens. Mobility, potentially providing greater privacy, especially when playing in one’s room, appears more crucial than the quality of the display.

Regarding the social aspects of gaming, 44.1% express a preference for playing alone, while only 17.0% prefer company, either with one person (14.4%) or in a group (2.6%). In contrast, 39.0% prefer online company, either individually (15.4%) or in a group (23.6%). It is noteworthy that when participants prefer group play, it is predominantly online (23.6%) rather than in person (2.6%). These figures suggest that video game playing is fundamentally a solitary activity, and when played in company, the preference is for others not to be physically present. Gender differences are evident, with males favoring playing alone (36.7%) or in an online group (33.0%), while females lean toward playing alone (59.5%) or with someone physically present (22.0%). Notable is the high percentage of females preferring solo play compared to males and the substantial percentage of males preferring online group play compared to only 4.7% of females. When considering preferences for online gaming (individually or in a group), males account for 57.0%, compared to females at 14.4%. These findings indicate that the primary preference for males is to play accompanied online, while females prefer solo play. The majority of participants (87.2%) engage in online gaming (44.4% exclusively), and 55.6% play offline (12.8% exclusively). Online video game playing is likely to become increasingly dominant due to the ease and affordability of internet connections and the accessibility of popular games over the internet (e.g., Fortnite). These observations support the idea that differentiating between online and offline gaming may have limited value, as suggested by Porter et al. (2010), despite the DSM-5 (IGD) profiling focusing exclusively on online gaming. Once again, gender differences emerge, with males showing a preference for online play. Very few males prefer offline play compared to 26.4% of females. Finally, females express a preference for both modes (52.1%), compared to 38.3% of males.

Throughout the study, we underscore the importance of identifying distinct patterns among video game (VG) players in adolescents, a demographic group with a heightened susceptibility to developing addictive behaviors. These profiles offer valuable insights for constructing conceptual and empirical foundations that elucidate why some players encounter issues while others do not in their use of VG. This knowledge will facilitate the development of psychopathological models that can provide a more comprehensive understanding of VG-related problems. Enhancing precision in comprehending this phenomenon, particularly considering gender and maturation period differences, will enable more accurate identification of pertinent risk factors for each player. This, in turn, facilitates the establishment of predictive models and personalized interventions tailored to individual realities. Ultimately, these findings can serve as a foundation for future research endeavors investigating VG player profiles, the impact of VG on young people, the development of healthy and problematic behaviors, as well as interventions aimed at the prevention or resolution of issues associated with VG. Moreover, the empirical assessment of therapeutic programs addressing gambling problems in VG will furnish pertinent information for identifying underlying therapeutic processes. Additionally, we recommend the launching of prevention campaigns on VG and internet addiction and its impact on mental and physical health.

The results of this study, while consistent with the existing literature, are limited to the Spanish context. Within this context, the sample’s representativeness provides reasonable assurance for extrapolating the results. Another limitation of this study is the reliance on self-reporting data collected at schools. It would be beneficial to verify whether the reports from young adolescents correspond to their actual behavior. In this regard, gathering corroborating information from parents or guardians could be valuable in assessing the alignment of the data. However, the anonymous nature of the information, for ethical reasons, makes this process challenging.

In summary, approximately three-quarters of young adolescents engage in video gaming (VG), with the proportion of females participating being nearly half that of males. VG players, on average, play almost four different types of games. The most played and favored games tend to be in the action genre, particularly Action and Adventure, Sports, and MMOs, although males and females exhibit different preferences. They play for a little over three days per week, for more than seven hours weekly, with males playing more than females.

Regarding internet gaming disorder (IGD), a higher frequency of gaming was associated with higher IGDS9-SF scores for both men and women, although the relationship was more pronounced in women. Thus, gender is a relevant variable when characterizing video game players: being male was associated with a higher proportion of players, and they prefer action games, engaging more frequently. Furthermore, in line with the expectations, males scored higher for IGD.

Young adolescents prefer playing on a game console (males) or mobile phone (females), in the comfort of their own homes, often alone and online. Small but significant increases in IDGS9-SF scores were found based on the device used (PC and console for men, tablet for women), the mode of connection (online connection), the company (online with one person for men, online in a group for women), and the location (playing alone for men, playing at school). These profiles can serve as a guide for families and educators to identify potentially risky behaviors and IGD problems. Of course, before discussing risky behavior, it would be necessary to screen and evaluate each particular case. However, understanding the typical behavior of young adolescents is useful for initial observations.

Conceptualization, M.L., M.B.-d.-Q., F.J.E. and I.F.-A.; methodology, I.S.-I.; formal analysis, I.S.-I.; validation, F.J.E.; investigation, I.F.-A. and M.V.-A.; resources, M.L. and M.V.-A.; data curation, M.V.-A.; writing—original draft preparation, I.S.-I., M.B.-d.-Q. and F.J.E.; writing—review and editing, I.S.-I., M.B.-d.-Q., F.J.E., M.L. and I.F.-A.; supervision, I.S.-I. and F.J.L.; project administration, F.J.L.; funding acquisition, F.J.L.; visualization, I.S.-I. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

The research adhered to the principles outlined in the Declaration of Helsinki and received approval from the Ethics Committee of the Complutense University of Madrid’s Faculty of Psychology (Reference: 2020/21-015, dated 20 December 2020).

Informed consent was obtained from all subjects involved in the study or their legal tutors.

We provide information on how the sample size was established, disclose any data exclusions, and detail all study measurements. We describe all statistical analyses and the software used, and the data and syntax can be obtained from the authors upon a reasonable request. The research materials can be accessed at osf.io/nrv45. It is important to note that the study and data analyses were not preregistered, although the study protocol was submitted to the University’s Ethics Committee.

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

This work received support from the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness via project PSI2016-75854-P.