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Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation for Online Gamers
Published on: November 9, 2019
Internet use and video gaming predict problem behavior in early adolescence.
1Johannes Kepler University Linz, Department of Education and Psychology, Altenberger Str. 69, A-4040 Linz, Austria. peter.holtz@jku.at
Journal of Adolescence
|March 23, 2010
Summary
Early adolescent internet and video game use can predict problem behaviors. Online gaming and communication predict externalizing issues, while role-playing games predict internalizing issues. Parent-child communication about online activities is protective.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Media Studies
- Adolescent Development
Background:
- Adolescents spend significant time on the internet and video games.
- Concerns exist regarding age-inappropriate content and its impact on teenagers.
- Existing theories on media use inform research into adolescent behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between specific internet and video game activities and problem behaviors in early adolescents.
- To identify predictors of externalizing and internalizing problem behaviors.
- To examine the role of parent-child communication regarding internet use.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 205 adolescents aged 10-14 years.
- Utilized the Youth Self Report (YSR) to identify clinically relevant problem behavior.
- Analyzed the predictive power of online gaming, communication, first-person shooters, online role-playing games, and parent-child communication.
Main Results:
- Online gaming, general internet use, and first-person shooter games predicted externalizing behaviors (aggression, delinquency).
- Online role-playing games predicted internalizing behaviors (withdrawal, anxiety).
- Positive parent-child communication about internet activities was associated with reduced problem behavior.
Conclusions:
- Specific types of internet and video game engagement are linked to distinct behavioral problems in adolescents.
- Parent-child communication serves as a protective factor against problematic media use outcomes.
- Further research is needed to understand the nuances of media effects on adolescent mental health.
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