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Unique associations between different motivations to play video games and anxiety: Evidence from network analysis
Kayleigh N Watters1, Mikael Rubin1
1Palo Alto University, Palo Alto, CA, USA.
Abstract:
Adults play video games at a high rate as video games offer an opportunity to feel connected, competent, and immersed. Motivations for playing video games may change experiences of anxiety and satisfaction with life. Gender also plays a role in motivations to play video games but there is very limited research on this. This paper will explore the differences between adults who play video games for different reasons and gender differences in gaming motivations. Participants were 13,464 adults who play video games (openly available on PsyArxiv) using network analyses and a chi-square. Findings suggest individuals that play to win may experience more anxiety, especially as they play more. Results also indicate potential differences in motivations between men and women. These findings highlight the importance of considering player motivation and individual differences such as gender in anxiety and satisfaction with life when examining the effects of gaming.
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