Problematic Video Gaming and Problematic Internet Use Among Polish Young Adults

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Behavioral Science
• Digital Health

Background:

• Technological advancements present dual impacts, facilitating daily life while potentially fostering problematic behaviors like problematic video gaming (PVG) and problematic internet use.
• Behavioral addictions are a growing concern among young adults, necessitating research into their specific manifestations and predictors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of problematic internet use and PVG in Polish young adults.
• To identify predictors and explore the interrelationship between problematic internet use and PVG in this demographic.

Main Methods:

• A study involving 1,493 Polish young adults (aged 18-30).
• Utilized the Problematic Internet Use Test (Polish version of Kimberly Young's Internet Addiction Test) and the Problem Video Game Playing Questionnaire.
• Employed structural equation modeling to analyze predictors and interrelationships.

Main Results:

• Prevalence rates: 0.3% exhibited very high problematic internet use; 3.6% of gamers showed signs of PVG.
• Structural equation modeling indicated a significant correlation between problematic internet use and PVG.
• Predictors identified: duration of social network usage for problematic internet use; time spent gaming and engagement in action games for PVG.

Conclusions:

• Problematic internet use and PVG are present in Polish young adults, with distinct predictors.
• Findings highlight the interconnectedness of these behavioral addictions, suggesting shared and unique etiological factors.
• This research contributes to a better understanding of behavioral addiction patterns in young adults and informs targeted interventions.