Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 24, 2026
06:01
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation for Online Gamers
Published on: November 9, 2019
8.7K
The relationship between gaming disorder and addiction requires a behavioral analysis
Richard J E James1, Richard J Tunney1
11 School of Psychology, University of Nottingham, University Park , Nottingham, UK.
Journal of Behavioral Addictions
|August 18, 2017
Summary
The categorization of gaming disorder requires caution due to equivocal data. A heterogeneous approach, considering mobile vs. video games, is needed for understanding behavioral addiction and potential harms.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Behavioral Addiction
- Digital Media Studies
Background:
- The classification of gaming disorder as a distinct mental disorder and addiction faces scrutiny.
- Aarseth et al. (2016) highlighted concerns regarding the scientific evidence and potential negative impacts on gamers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comment on the categorization of gaming disorder.
- To advocate for a more nuanced understanding of behavioral addictions related to gaming.
- To emphasize the need for further clinical research and varied analytical approaches.
Main Methods:
- Commentary on existing literature and position papers.
- Analysis of the relevance of gambling addiction concepts to gaming.
- Argument for multi-level analysis in gaming research.
Main Results:
- The scientific data supporting gaming disorder as a discrete mental disorder is equivocal.
- A one-size-fits-all approach to behavioral addiction is insufficient for understanding gaming.
- Concepts from gambling addiction may be more applicable to mobile gaming than video gaming broadly.
Conclusions:
- Caution is warranted when classifying gaming disorder.
- A heterogeneous approach is necessary for understanding behavioral addictions.
- Further clinical research and diverse analytical levels are crucial for assessing gaming-related harm.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)
1.4K
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) serves as the primary classification system for mental health disorders, providing standardized diagnostic criteria for clinicians and researchers. First published by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) in 1952, the DSM has undergone several revisions to reflect evolving psychiatric understanding. The fifth edition, DSM-5, released in 2013, introduced key updates that expanded diagnostic categories and modified diagnostic...
1.4K
01:15Drug Abuse and Addiction: Pharmacological Phenomena
1.3K
Drug dependence, abuse, and addiction are complex phenomena that can precipitate various abnormal states. Physical dependence refers to a state of pharmacological adaptation to a drug. This adaptation often results in tolerance—a reduced response to the drug after repeated administrations. When the drug use is abruptly stopped, withdrawal symptoms occur due to the body's need to readjust from the pharmacologically induced imbalance. However, tolerance and withdrawal symptoms do not...
1.3K
01:24Substance Use Disorders Affecting Sleep
471
Substance use disorders involve a pattern of using drugs more extensively than intended and continuing use despite harmful consequences. This includes legal substances like alcohol and nicotine, as well as illegal drugs. These disorders often involve both physical and psychological dependence, reflecting compulsive use of substances that significantly alter thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, contributing to a major public health issue.
Understanding the concepts of physical dependence,...
Understanding the concepts of physical dependence,...
471
01:19Introduction to Psychological Disorders
1.4K
Abnormal behavior, often referred to as mental illness, results from changes in brain function that influence thought patterns, behaviors, and social interactions. Psychologists and psychiatrists typically assess abnormal behavior using three primary criteria: deviance, maladaptation, and personal distress, particularly when these traits persist over long periods.
Deviant Behavior
Deviance in behavior refers to actions or thought patterns that significantly diverge from societal norms or...
Deviant Behavior
Deviance in behavior refers to actions or thought patterns that significantly diverge from societal norms or...
1.4K
01:23Binge Eating Disorders
559
Binge eating disorder is a significant mental health condition characterized by recurrent episodes of excessive food consumption within a short period, accompanied by a perceived loss of control over eating behavior. Unlike occasional overeating, binge eating disorder is marked by distressing emotions such as guilt, shame, and anxiety following binge episodes. The disorder affects individuals across different ages and backgrounds, with profound implications for physical and psychological...
559
01:17Drug Dependence
1.8K
Medications are typically administered to achieve therapeutic effects. Some drugs can modify an individual's mood and perception, frequently resulting in various enjoyable experiences. However, this can result in drug dependency, a condition marked by continuous drug use despite potential negative consequences. Drug dependency primarily falls into two categories: psychological and physical dependence. Psychological dependence occurs when the pleasurable feelings induced by the drug...
1.8K