The association between internet gaming disorder, depression, and anxiety among Palestinian university students who play internet games in a conflict-affected region - Report - MDSpire
Advertisement
The association between internet gaming disorder, depression, and anxiety among Palestinian university students who play internet games in a conflict-affected region
Linking Internet Gaming Disorder with Depression and Anxiety in Palestinian University Students
Overview
This study investigates the association between internet gaming disorder (IGD), depression, anxiety, and loneliness among Palestinian university students.
Background
Internet gaming disorder (IGD) is a behavioral addiction that poses risks to mental health, particularly among university students who frequently engage in online gaming.
Data Highlights
Variable
Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR)
p-value
Female Gender
0.668
<0.005
Household Income < $350
0.427
0.003
Anxiety
1.806
<0.001
Depression
1.380
0.038
Loneliness
2.632
<0.001
Gaming 1-2 hours
3.093
0.023
Gaming 3-4 hours
3.786
0.004
Gaming > 4 hours
8.536
0.006
Key Findings
57.5% of university students were at risk of IGD.
Females had higher odds of experiencing IGD compared to males (AOR: 0.668).
Students with a household income of less than $350 had lower odds of IGD (AOR: 0.427).
Anxiety was associated with increased odds of IGD (AOR: 1.806).
Depression and loneliness were also linked to higher odds of IGD (AOR: 1.380 and AOR: 2.632, respectively).
Increased gaming duration correlated with higher odds of IGD, particularly for those gaming over 4 hours daily (AOR: 8.536).
Clinical Implications
Mental health professionals should be aware of the significant associations between IGD and mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. Early detection and intervention strategies are essential to support at-risk university students.
Conclusion
The study demonstrates associations between IGD and mental health issues among university students.
