Cross-Cultural Differences in the Pathways to Internet Gaming Disorder

No research to date has examined cross-cultural differences in the pathways to internet gaming disorder (IGD). The current study aimed to address this limitation by examining the relationships between nationality (Singaporeans vs. Australians), culture orientation, gaming motivations, and IGD.

Participants were 101 Singaporeans (55.4% males) and 98 Australians (52.0% males). They completed the Culture Orientation Scale, the Motives for Online Gaming Questionnaire, and the Internet Gaming Disorder Scale-Short-Form.

A series of mediational analyses showed that Singaporeans tend to be more collectivistic (both horizontally and vertically). In turn, this culture orientation motivates them to play games for social reasons, increasing the risk for IGD. In contrast, Australians tend to be more individualistic (vertically only). In turn, this culture orientation motivates them to play games for competitive reasons, increasing the risk for IGD.

Limitations include the use of samples from two countries only, precluding a generalization of the results. Future research directions include examining the role of game genres as a mediator in the nationality-IGD relationship.