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Starosta J, Kiszka P, Szyszka PD, Starzec S, Strojny P. The tangled ways to classify games: A systematic review of how games are classified in psychological research. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0299819. [PMID: 38913664 PMCID: PMC11195997 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
In the face of the rapid evolution of the gaming market and the puzzling overlap of genres, consistency in classification seems elusive. The purpose of the present review was to explore the classification of video game genres in the context of psychological research. The aim was to address the challenges associated with creating consistent and meaningful classifications of video game genres, considering the rapid evolution of the gaming market and recent tendency to create games that could be classified into multiple genres. We performed a search in four databases according to the PRISMA guidelines and reviewed 96 full-text papers (N = 49 909). Through our findings, we reveal how researchers strive to classify genres and the numerous complications that arise from this pursuit. In the face of these challenges, we propose alternative ways of classifying genres. Our first proposal is a new classification of video game genres based on our literature review. In our second proposal, we advocate a more detailed understanding by focusing on specific gaming mechanics, and thus we introduce the innovative concept of utilizing community-based tags, such as Steam tags, as an alternative to genres in psychological research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jolanta Starosta
- Faculty of Management and Social Communication, Institute of Applied Psychology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Patrycja Kiszka
- Doctoral School in the Social Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Paulina Daria Szyszka
- Faculty of Philosophy, Institute of Psychology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Sylwia Starzec
- Doctoral School in the Social Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Paweł Strojny
- Faculty of Management and Social Communication, Institute of Applied Psychology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
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2
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The relation of geek culture engagement to narcissism and self-esteem: Potential roles of admiration, rivalry, status, and inclusion. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-020-00697-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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3
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Tang WY, Reer F, Quandt T. The interplay of gaming disorder, gaming motivations, and the dark triad. J Behav Addict 2020; 9:491-496. [PMID: 32544080 PMCID: PMC8939412 DOI: 10.1556/2006.2020.00013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Revised: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 03/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS There is a considerable amount of research on the psychological antecedents and outcomes of gaming disorder. Although many studies have examined various personality traits or motivations as predictors in isolation, fewer studies have investigated the mediations between personality traits and motivations. Furthermore, the analyzed personality traits have been limited to a few core concepts, with the Big Five personality traits being a standard model in this context. However, more recently the dark triad of personality traits (Machiavellianism, narcissism, and psychopathy) has been found to be associated with various forms of problematic online behavior and usage, such as online gambling, yet little is known about gaming disorder. The current study examines the relationship of these dark personality traits to gaming disorder with three gaming motivations (achievement, social, and escapism) as mediators. METHOD The study uses an online survey of 1,502 German digital game users. RESULTS Results indicate a fully mediated association for narcissism via escapism and partial mediation associations for Machiavellianism and psychopathy. Direct effects on gaming disorder were observed for Machiavellianism and psychopathy. Indirect effects by psychopathy were observed via escapism and social motivation, by narcissism via escapism, and by Machiavellianism via social motivation. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS These findings contribute to the theoretical understanding of the mediation of gaming motivations and the dark triad personality traits' importance for gaming disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wai Yen Tang
- Department of Communication, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Felix Reer
- Department of Communication, University of Münster, Münster, Germany,Corresponding author. Tel.: +49 251 83 24869; fax: +49 251 83 28394. E-mail:
| | - Thorsten Quandt
- Department of Communication, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
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King DL, Delfabbro PH, Perales JC, Deleuze J, Király O, Krossbakken E, Billieux J. Maladaptive player-game relationships in problematic gaming and gaming disorder: A systematic review. Clin Psychol Rev 2019; 73:101777. [PMID: 31707185 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2019.101777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2018] [Revised: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
While certain player vulnerabilities are known to increase risk of gaming disorder (GD), the topic of maladaptive player × game relationships in GD has received limited attention. This review aimed to: (1) identify game types associated with GD symptomatology; and (2) evaluate individual differences (e.g., age, personality, depression) in the relationship between gaming and GD symptomatology. A systematic review of six databases identified 23 studies of the relations between game types and GD, including 13 studies employing multivariate analyses. Player vulnerabilities implicated in GD included impulsivity, risk-taking, psychopathological symptoms (e.g., depression, anxiety), and stronger gaming motivations (e.g., escapism, achievement). MMORPG involvement had the strongest positive association with GD. Problematic MMORPG players tend to have a socially anxious profile and may be attracted to the work-like roles and conventions of this genre. Problematic players of shooters tend to score higher on measures of sensation-seeking and impulsivity than other players. These findings suggest that GD may develop more readily and at more severe levels in complex, endless, socially driven games, irrespective of person-level characteristics. Some player vulnerabilities may selectively increase risk of GD for certain game types. Further research should investigate different player-game interactions to refine current models and interventions for GD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel L King
- College of Education, Psychology & Social Work, Flinders University, Australia; School of Psychology, The University of Adelaide, Australia.
| | - Paul H Delfabbro
- College of Education, Psychology & Social Work, Flinders University, Australia; School of Psychology, The University of Adelaide, Australia
| | - Jose C Perales
- Department of Experimental Psychology, Mind, Brain, and Behavior Research Center, University of Granada, Spain
| | - Jory Deleuze
- Scientific Research and Publication Cell (CRPS), Le Beau Vallon, Namur, Belgium
| | - Orsolya Király
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Elfrid Krossbakken
- Department of Psychosocial Science, Faculty of Psychology, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Joël Billieux
- Institute of Psychology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Addictive and Compulsive Behaviours Lab, Institute for Health and Behaviour, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
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von der Heiden JM, Braun B, Müller KW, Egloff B. The Association Between Video Gaming and Psychological Functioning. Front Psychol 2019; 10:1731. [PMID: 31402891 PMCID: PMC6676913 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.01731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2018] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Video gaming is an extremely popular leisure-time activity with more than two billion users worldwide (Newzoo, 2017). However, the media as well as professionals have underscored the potential dangers of excessive video gaming. With the present research, we aimed to shed light on the relation between video gaming and gamers' psychological functioning. Questionnaires on personality and psychological health as well as video gaming habits were administered to 2,734 individuals (2,377 male, 357 female, M age = 23.06, SD age = 5.91). Results revealed a medium-sized negative correlation between problematic video gaming and psychological functioning with regard to psychological symptoms, affectivity, coping, and self-esteem. Moreover, gamers' reasons for playing and their preferred game genres were differentially related to psychological functioning with the most notable findings for distraction-motivated players as well as action game players. Future studies are needed to examine whether these psychological health risks reflect the causes or consequences of video gaming.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Beate Braun
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, University Medical Center, Mainz, Germany
| | - Kai W. Müller
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, University Medical Center, Mainz, Germany
| | - Boris Egloff
- Department of Psychology, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
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Şalvarlı Şİ, Griffiths MD. Internet Gaming Disorder and Its Associated Personality Traits: A Systematic Review Using PRISMA Guidelines. Int J Ment Health Addict 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s11469-019-00081-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractFor most individuals, videogame playing is a fun and enjoyable activity that brings many benefits. However, for a small minority, the activity can be problematic and has led to much research into “gaming disorder.” In explanations concerning the contributory factors to gaming disorder, personality traits have been increasingly studied. The present paper carried out a systematic review of available literature using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. The inclusion criteria were (i) publication date between 2000 and 2018, (ii) being an empirical study, (iii) written in English and Turkish languages (the two languages spoken by the authors), (iv) published in a scholarly peer-reviewed journal, and (v) conducted an assessment of IGD and personality traits objectively. Studies were excluded from the review if they were (i) single-case studies, (ii) unpublished thesis and dissertation studies, and (iii) not published in a peer-reviewed journal. Following these procedures, 21 eligible empirical studies were included. Results demonstrated that 24 distinct personality traits had been examined in relation to IGD and that some of these traits were demonstrated as risk factors for gaming addiction (although not always in the same direction).
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The Dark Tetrad traits and problematic online gaming: The mediating role of online gaming motives and moderating role of game types. PERSONALITY AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2018.07.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Paulus FW, Ohmann S, von Gontard A, Popow C. Internet gaming disorder in children and adolescents: a systematic review. Dev Med Child Neurol 2018; 60:645-659. [PMID: 29633243 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.13754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 241] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/02/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
AIM Internet gaming disorder (IGD) is a serious disorder leading to and maintaining pertinent personal and social impairment. IGD has to be considered in view of heterogeneous and incomplete concepts. We therefore reviewed the scientific literature on IGD to provide an overview focusing on definitions, symptoms, prevalence, and aetiology. METHOD We systematically reviewed the databases ERIC, PsyARTICLES, PsycINFO, PSYNDEX, and PubMed for the period January 1991 to August 2016, and additionally identified secondary references. RESULTS The proposed definition in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition provides a good starting point for diagnosing IGD but entails some disadvantages. Developing IGD requires several interacting internal factors such as deficient self, mood and reward regulation, problems of decision-making, and external factors such as deficient family background and social skills. In addition, specific game-related factors may promote IGD. Summarizing aetiological knowledge, we suggest an integrated model of IGD elucidating the interplay of internal and external factors. INTERPRETATION So far, the concept of IGD and the pathways leading to it are not entirely clear. In particular, long-term follow-up studies are missing. IGD should be understood as an endangering disorder with a complex psychosocial background. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS In representative samples of children and adolescents, on average, 2% are affected by Internet gaming disorder (IGD). The mean prevalences (overall, clinical samples included) reach 5.5%. Definitions are heterogeneous and the relationship with substance-related addictions is inconsistent. Many aetiological factors are related to the development and maintenance of IGD. This review presents an integrated model of IGD, delineating the interplay of these factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank W Paulus
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Saarland University Hospital, Homburg, Germany
| | - Susanne Ohmann
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Alexander von Gontard
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Saarland University Hospital, Homburg, Germany
| | - Christian Popow
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Monacis L, de Palo V, Griffiths MD, Sinatra M. Validation of the Internet Gaming Disorder Scale - Short-Form (IGDS9-SF) in an Italian-speaking sample. J Behav Addict 2016; 5:683-690. [PMID: 27876422 PMCID: PMC5370374 DOI: 10.1556/2006.5.2016.083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aims The inclusion of Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) in Section III of the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders has increased the interest of researchers in the development of new standardized psychometric tools for the assessment of such a disorder. To date, the nine-item Internet Gaming Disorder Scale - Short-Form (IGDS9-SF) has only been validated in English, Portuguese, and Slovenian languages. Therefore, the aim of this investigation was to examine the psychometric properties of the IGDS9-SF in an Italian-speaking sample. Methods A total of 757 participants were recruited to the present study. Confirmatory factor analysis and multi-group analyses were applied to assess the construct validity. Reliability analyses comprised the average variance extracted, the standard error of measurement, and the factor determinacy coefficient. Convergent and criterion validities were established through the associations with other related constructs. The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to determine an empirical cut-off point. Results Findings confirmed the single-factor structure of the instrument, its measurement invariance at the configural level, and the convergent and criterion validities. Satisfactory levels of reliability and a cut-off point of 21 were obtained. Discussion and conclusions The present study provides validity evidence for the use of the Italian version of the IGDS9-SF and may foster research into gaming addiction in the Italian context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Monacis
- Department of Humanities, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy,Corresponding author: Lucia Monacis; Department of Humanities, University of Foggia, via Arpi, 175, 71100, Foggia, Italy; Phone: +39 0881 587605; E-mail:
| | - Valeria de Palo
- Department of Humanities, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Mark D. Griffiths
- International Gaming Research Unit, Division of Psychology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Maria Sinatra
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
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Thorens G, Billieux J, Megevand P, Zullino D, Rothen S, Achab S, Khazaal Y. Capitalizing upon the Attractive and Addictive Properties of Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games to Promote Wellbeing. Front Psychiatry 2016; 7:167. [PMID: 27799913 PMCID: PMC5066093 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2016.00167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2016] [Accepted: 09/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Thorens
- Addictology Division, Mental Health and Psychiatry Department, Geneva University Hospitals , Geneva , Switzerland
| | - Joel Billieux
- Laboratory for Experimental Psychopathology, Psychological Sciences Research Institute, Catholic University of Louvain , Louvain-La-Neuve , Belgium
| | - Pierre Megevand
- Neurology Division, Clinical Neuroscience Department, Geneva University Hospitals , Geneva , Switzerland
| | - Daniele Zullino
- Addictology Division, Mental Health and Psychiatry Department, Geneva University Hospitals , Geneva , Switzerland
| | - Stéphane Rothen
- Addictology Division, Mental Health and Psychiatry Department, Geneva University Hospitals , Geneva , Switzerland
| | - Sophia Achab
- Addictology Division, Mental Health and Psychiatry Department, Geneva University Hospitals , Geneva , Switzerland
| | - Yasser Khazaal
- Addictology Division, Mental Health and Psychiatry Department, Geneva University Hospitals , Geneva , Switzerland
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