A influência de fatores de saúde mental na dependência de jogos eletrônicos em adolescentes

Abstract

Electronic games constitute a significant portion of contemporary leisure activities, with young individuals being the primary enthusiasts of this practice. In this context, considering the subtle boundary between conventional and problematic usage, this study aimed to estimate the prevalence of electronic game dependence among adolescents and assess its relationship with sociodemographic, behavioral, and mental health aspects (anxiety, depression, and stress) in this population. The sample consisted of high school students from a school in Rio Grande do Sul, underage and of both genders. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between June and August 2023 in a high school located in Passo Fundo, Rio Grande do Sul. The Electronic Game Dependency Scale (ESDEJE) assessed the prevalence through 7 dimensions. The sociodemographic questionnaire collected data on age, gender, race, income, academic performance, social relationships, and physical activity. Symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress were measured by DASS-21. Absolute and relative frequencies were used, applying the chi-square test (5% significance level) to evaluate the relationship between the outcome and expected distribution for each variable. Results: In the sample (n=55), the prevalence of electronic game dependence was 27% (95% CI 15-39), with higher endorsement of the mood modification (81.8%) and salience (78.2%) dimensions. There were no statistically significant differences in independent variables when related to the outcome, although the majority of dependents were male participants (70.9%), white (74.5%), with a monthly family income in the range of 1.5 to 5 minimum wages (40%), and with non-prominent symptoms of depression (63.3%), anxiety (65.5%), and stress (74.5%). Conclusions: Various studies emphasize the significance of electronic game dependence today. However, it has not yet been conclusively established whether mental disorders are the cause of game dependence or if it is an autonomous disorder. Comprehensive studies are needed to better understand and measure this phenomenon.