Psychologists recognize existence of the Internet Gaming Disorder
Psychologists now recognize the existence of what they call, Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD). The following short entry reviews a study done on the subject by King and Delfabbro, back in 2014. The research paper was published in the Clinical Psychology Review journal. The disorder is now included as a potential mental health disorder in the DSM 5 (the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition), and published by the APA (American Psychiatric Association). The disorder is somewhat similar to a gambling disorder and includes the following criteria:
The disorder is likewise referred to as “video game addiction” and “pathological video gaming”. But, at what point does normal Internet gaming become a disorder? Researchers King and Delfabbro (2014) maintain that one of the characteristic features, is an excessive and irrational preoccupation and beliefs held about Internet gaming. The authors found the following four factors as influencing the development of IGD:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has been designated the appropriate treatment for IGD. CBT challenges one’s beliefs and thoughts, and allows the individual to replace maladaptive cognition by adaptive ones, which in turn leads the person to feel better.
See also:
Illustration: Megan Jorgensen
New AirPods features introduced with iOS 26 Here's a detailed look at the new AirPods…
WatchOS 26 marks a major leap for the Apple Watch, integrating AI-powered features that make…
How to Make a Photo with Your Favorite Artist or Superhero Using Gemini AI Google's…
Apple September 2025 Keynote Highlights: iPhone 17, iPhone Air, AirPods Pro 3 & More Revealed…
EU Hits Google with Record €2.95 Billion Fine Over Ad Tech Abuses Why Europe is…
To cancel or prevent future updates on an Android phone, use built-in device settings to…