Utility of DSM-5 Criteria for Internet Gaming Disorder

The American Psychiatric Association (APA) has called for further research on Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) by placing it in Section III of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5). Research on prevalence, risk factors, and development of criteria for a diagnosis of IGD is mixed in the literature. This study sought to contribute to these topics by examining a diverse sample of Internet gamers (N = 1,881) from around the world. Results showed a prevalence rate of 4.2%, with varying prevalence rates based on demographic characteristics. Significant risk factors for IGD included gender and hours spent gaming. Finally, frequency counts of IGD criteria showed significant differences between participants meeting IGD criteria and those not meeting criteria, as well as significant differences by gender and age. Low frequency counts and significant differences based on demographics point to criteria that may be less appropriate for a diagnosis, as well as considerations for diagnosing diverse populations. Limitations and future research are discussed.