Understanding the Impact of Psychological Distress on Internet Gaming Disorder
The prevalence of Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) among university students is a growing concern, particularly in Asian countries. A recent study titled "Effects of Psychological Distress and Coping Resources on Internet Gaming Disorder: Comparison between Chinese and Japanese University Students" provides valuable insights into the factors that can mitigate the risk of IGD. This study, conducted among 1243 university students from China and Japan, highlights the role of psychological distress and the protective effects of coping resources such as mindfulness and social support.
Key Findings from the Study
The study found that Japanese students reported higher levels of IGD tendency and psychological distress compared to their Chinese counterparts. The researchers employed the transactional theory of stress and coping to analyze how coping resources can buffer the impact of psychological distress on IGD. Among the coping resources examined, mindfulness emerged as the strongest protective factor against IGD across both cultural groups.
The Role of Mindfulness
Mindfulness, defined as the ability to maintain open, nonjudgmental attention to the present moment, plays a crucial role in emotional regulation and cognitive appraisal. The study found that mindfulness not only reduces psychological distress but also acts as a buffer, particularly for female students, against the development of IGD. This suggests that mindfulness training could be an effective intervention strategy for reducing IGD tendencies.
Importance of Social Support
Social support was also identified as a significant protective factor against IGD. The perception of having a supportive social network can alleviate psychological distress and reduce the likelihood of turning to gaming as a coping mechanism. The study suggests that fostering social support systems, such as peer-led intervention programs, could be beneficial in preventing IGD among university students.
Implications for Practitioners
Practitioners working with university students can leverage these findings to enhance their intervention strategies. By incorporating mindfulness training and promoting social support networks, practitioners can help students develop healthier coping mechanisms and reduce their risk of IGD. Additionally, the study highlights the need for culturally tailored interventions, as the effectiveness of coping resources may vary across different cultural contexts.
Encouraging Further Research
While the study provides valuable insights, it also opens avenues for further research. Future studies could explore the long-term effects of mindfulness and social support interventions on IGD, as well as investigate other potential coping resources. By continuing to explore these areas, researchers can contribute to the development of more effective prevention and intervention strategies for IGD.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Effects of Psychological Distress and Coping Resources on Internet Gaming Disorder: Comparison between Chinese and Japanese University Students.
