A new study has revealed that Indian adolescents and young adults who spend significant time playing video games are at heightened risk of experiencing emotional difficulties, peer relationship problems, and behavioural issues. The findings, published in ISPCE Bulletin, shed light on the growing concern around internet gaming disorder (IGD), a condition now formally recognised in global diagnostic manuals.
The research, conducted among 150 participants across southern India, examined the psychological impact of gaming behaviour using validated self-report questionnaires. While mobile gaming emerged as the most popular platform, with titles like PUBG and Candy Crush leading in popularity, it was not the choice of game that drew concern, but rather the frequency and intensity of engagement.
According to the study, 6% of participants met the diagnostic threshold for IGD. Although this figure appears modest, the psychological profile of those affected paints a troubling picture. Those with IGD scored higher in emotional distress, conduct problems, and peer difficulties compared to non-addicted peers. Additionally, a notable decline in pro-social behaviour was observed, suggesting a retreat from healthy interpersonal interactions.
Rizwana Farween Rajmohamed, PhD, a lecturer at JAIN University in India, explained: “I’ve noticed that more and more young people are spending hours glued to their screens, often at the cost of their sleep, studies, relationships, and mental health.”
One striking feature of the findings was the weak correlation between IGD and hyperactivity. Contrary to earlier assumptions, problematic gaming was not significantly associated with attention-related challenges, raising questions about the nature of the disorder and its differentiation from other psychiatric conditions. Instead, it appears that IGD may be more closely tied to emotional dysregulation and social isolation.
The researchers used the Internet Gaming Disorder Scale – Short Form, aligned with DSM-5 criteria, alongside the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, to assess participants’ mental health. The results revealed moderate to strong correlations between high IGD scores and a range of psychological difficulties, reinforcing the case for early identification and targeted intervention.
India, home to the world’s second-largest youth population and a rapidly expanding gaming market, remains underrepresented in global research on IGD. This study addresses that gap, offering culturally relevant insights into how gaming habits intersect with mental health in a South Asian context. With mobile phones providing cheap and easy access to online games, adolescents are increasingly vulnerable to patterns of compulsive use.
Reflecting on the study’s purpose, Rajmohamed noted: “This study isn’t about blaming gaming—it’s about understanding its impact when it’s no longer just a hobby.”
Although the study confirmed that most young gamers maintain a healthy relationship with gaming, the data supports the growing call for awareness campaigns and preventative strategies. These could include educational initiatives in schools, parental guidance on screen time, and mental health programmes designed to foster emotional resilience and social engagement.
Emphasising the need for broader efforts, Rajmohamed added: “These findings show the importance of keeping an eye on gaming habits, especially in young people. Parents, teachers, and mental health professionals should be aware of the signs of problematic gaming and encourage healthier routines.”
Importantly, the authors acknowledged certain limitations, including the use of self-reported data and a sample drawn from specific regions in India. Still, the consistent trends in emotional and behavioural impact lend credibility to their conclusions.
As digital entertainment continues to dominate adolescent leisure time, experts warn that the line between hobby and disorder is becoming increasingly blurred. This study highlights the importance of distinguishing between recreational gaming and problematic use and calls for further research to inform clinical practice and policymaking in India and beyond.
Rajmohamed concluded: “There are plans to conduct larger, more diverse studies that include rural and urban populations, as well as comparisons between genders.”
