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Physiological indicators of pathologic video game use in adolescence
Sarah M Coyne1, W Justin Dyer1, Rebecca Densley1
1School of Family Life, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah.
Summary
Physiological responses to cognitive and family tasks predict pathologic video game use (PVGU) in adolescents. Lower physiological engagement with cognitive tasks and higher stress during family tasks are linked to increased PVGU symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent psychology
- Neuroscience
- Behavioral science
Background:
- Pathologic video game use (PVGU) in adolescents is linked to negative psychological, physical, and social outcomes.
- Limited research exists on the physiological predictors of PVGU development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate physiological predictors of pathologic video game use (PVGU) across adolescence.
- To examine the relationship between autonomic nervous system activity and PVGU development.
Main Methods:
- A 1-year longitudinal study involving 374 adolescents and their parents.
- Assessed PVGU via questionnaire and measured physiological indicators like respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) and galvanic skin conductance (GSC).
- Physiological measures were taken during baseline, a cognitive task (Rubik's cube), and a family problem-solving task.
Main Results:
- Reduced RSA withdrawal during cognitive tasks correlated with greater PVGU symptoms.
- Reduced RSA withdrawal during family problem-solving tasks was associated with PVGU presence (p < .05).
- For girls, GSC activation during family problem-solving predicted greater PVGU symptoms (p < .01).
Conclusions:
- Adolescents with lower physiological engagement in cognitive tasks may experience more severe PVGU.
- Physiological stress responses during family tasks are linked to PVGU symptoms, particularly in girls.
- This study is the first to demonstrate that physiological indicators predict PVGU development in adolescence, informing prevention and treatment strategies.
