Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 10, 2025

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation for Online Gamers
Published on: November 9, 2019
Longitudinal Interactions between Problematic Internet Gaming and Symptoms of Depression Among University Students:
Xinyi Wei1, Huiling Zhou2, Qiaoyi Zheng3
1School of Nursing, Putian University, Putian 351100, China.
Background/Objective:
This study examines the interplay between problematic internet gaming (PIG) and depressive symptoms among university students, specifically anhedonia and depressed mood. Prior studies lacked distinction between these symptoms and had limited follow-ups.
Method:
The three-wave longitudinal study analyzed data from 1,720 university students (with an average age of 20 years and 49 % being female) using a random intercept cross-lagged panel model, which distinguished between-person and within-person effects.
Results:
At the between-person level, PIG was positively associated with two depressive symptoms. At the within-person level, PIG positively predicted future anhedonia. Besides, depressed mood positively predicted future PIG.
Conclusions:
Our results have identified PIG as a risk factor for anhedonia and depressed mood as a risk factor for PIG among university students.
Related Concept Videos
Depressive Disorders: Etiology
Biological Factors in Depression
Biological predispositions significantly influence the risk of developing depressive disorders. Genetic studies highlight the role of variations in the serotonin transporter...
Depression: Overview
Bullying
Stress and Mental Health
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...
Long-term Depression
Depressive Disorders: MDD and Dysthymia

