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Early gaming linked to quicker development of gaming disorders, researchers suggest preventive measures.
A new study conducted by the University of Gothenburg has found that individuals who begin playing video games at an early age are more likely to develop problematic gaming behaviors at a faster rate compared to those who start playing later in childhood. The findings highlight a growing concern about the impacts of early exposure to digital gaming.
The study, led by Annika Hofstedt, Ph.D. student at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, and head of the Clinic for Gambling Disorder and Screen Health at Sahlgrenska University Hospital, emphasizes the importance of preventive measures and greater awareness.
“We can’t say for sure that an early gaming debut leads to faster addiction, but it may be of relevance,” said Hofstedt. “That those who started gaming at a younger age developed problems more quickly could also be a consequence of the fact that today, young people have access to other games that lead to dependency more quickly. Our results underline the need for preventive measures.”
Study Design and Key Findings
The study, published in the journal Frontiers in Psychiatry, examined 69 patients aged 15 to 56 who met the criteria for gaming disorder. The participants were divided into two groups: a younger group (up to 25 years) and an older group (26 years and over). Data were collected using structured interviews and questionnaires.
The younger group began playing video games at an average age of six to seven and developed gaming-related issues by around age 14. In contrast, the older group started gaming at approximately age 10 and only exhibited clear problematic behaviors by an average age of 21.
These findings suggest a faster progression toward gaming disorders among those exposed to video games earlier in life.
Implications for Different Stages of Life
Senior author Anna Söderpalm Gordh, Associate Professor at Sahlgrenska Academy and Research Director at the Department of Addiction and Dependency at Sahlgrenska University Hospital, emphasized the societal relevance of the results.
“More and more people of all ages are playing digital games. Video games are not necessarily bad, but we need more knowledge about how gaming disorder develops during the different stages of life,” said Söderpalm Gordh. “Our findings raise important questions for society and parents. It might be a good idea to wait a few years before giving a child their first video game console.”
The Need for Preventive Strategies
The study’s findings align with previous research that identifies early gaming debut as a risk factor for severe gaming disorders. With modern games increasingly designed to maximize engagement and dependence, the study underscores the urgency of implementing preventive measures, such as delaying gaming exposure or educating families on healthy gaming habits.
The study also revealed a gender disparity, as only three of the 69 participants were female, reflecting broader trends in gaming disorder research.
Moving Forward
As gaming continues to grow in popularity across all age groups, further research is needed to understand the psychological and developmental impacts of early gaming exposure. The authors stress the importance of parental awareness and societal dialogue about appropriate gaming practices for children.
More information:
Annika Hofstedt et al, Young and adult patients with gaming disorder: Psychiatric co-morbidities and progression of problematic gaming, Frontiers in Psychiatry (2024). DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1423785
