A Multiplayer Solution? The Moderating Role of Peer and Family Support in the Relation between Stress and Gaming Activity

Abstract

With the increasing popularity of online gaming, so has the number of problematic gamers increased. Following this trend, researchers have tried to understand the development of Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD). This cross-sectional quantitative study using the Dutch HBSC data (N = 4060) examined the relation between stress and IGD and stress and gaming intensity in adolescents aged 12-18. Additionally, the moderation of these relations by peer support and family support were tested, to fill this gap in the growing body of research. It was hypothesized that stress is positively associated with both IGD and gaming intensity, and that both peer support and family support would moderate these relations. Using stepwise linear regression analyses a negative relation was found between stress and both IGD and gaming intensity, as well as a main effect of peer support. No significant moderation effects were found. In conclusion, an increase in stress is associated with less IGD. This finding contradicts current literature, emphasizing the need for further research into this topic to achieve undisputed knowledge as a basis for intervention.