Long-Term Effects of Excessive Gaming on Adolescents, Study Finds

A recent comprehensive study has highlighted the enduring impact of excessive internet gaming on teenagers. The research indicates that approximately 10% of boys may encounter internet gaming disorder (IGD) during their formative years, with adverse effects extending into adolescence for both genders.

IGD is characterized as a behavioral condition where persistent gaming behaviors interfere significantly with daily life, affecting education, social relationships, and mental health. Conducted by Nottingham Trent University in the UK, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, and RMIT University in Melbourne, the study tracked more than 800 Norwegian children from age 10 through 18. The findings showed that by age 18, about 10% of boys and nearly 2% of girls had experienced IGD at least once.

While the overall prevalence at any given time remains low—around 1% to 2%—the cumulative risk over time is substantially higher for boys, who are three to five times more likely to develop the disorder. Importantly, the research also revealed that when girls do exhibit symptoms, the severity of negative outcomes is comparable to that in boys.

Researchers conducted face-to-face clinical interviews based on international diagnostic standards at five intervals over eight years, accumulating over 3,200 observations. The study ensured a representative sample by including children with various emotional and behavioral profiles, with results adjusted to reflect the general population. Advanced data analysis modeled how gaming habits evolve during adolescence.

The study, published in the journal Addiction, identified two primary symptom patterns: one involves intense engagement with gaming, such as preoccupation and difficulty controlling play; the other includes negative outcomes like interest loss in other activities and difficulties at school or in relationships. Notably, heavy gaming involvement rises from age 10, peaks in mid-adolescence, then declines sharply by age 18. Conversely, negative consequences remain stable across teenage years.

Early signs of problematic gaming tend to diminish naturally over time. However, from age 12 onwards, increased involvement predicts a higher risk of negative consequences later, emphasizing the importance of early intervention. Experts like Dr. Daria Kuss of NTU stress that early, age-appropriate actions are crucial to prevent persistent gaming issues. Professor Lars Wichstrøm of NTU also advocates for proactive measures during early adolescence, urging parents, educators, and health professionals to address excessive gaming habits before they become entrenched.

The findings underscore that while most youth can game safely, a minority are at risk of patterns that could disrupt their development and well-being. Recognizing early warning signs and fostering supportive environments can help mitigate these risks and promote healthier gaming behaviors in teens.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-10-term-impact-excessive-gaming-teens.html