Moderating Effects of Depressive Symptoms and Self-Control Trait on the Association Between Problematic Internet Gaming and Time Spent

This study was performed to examine whether depressive symptoms (DPs) and low self-control (LSC) traits has modifying effects on the association of time spent on Internet gaming and problematic Internet game use (PIGU). Among 1,535 middle school students, 42.1 percent reported playing ≥1.5 hours of Internet games/day on average, and 10.0 percent were classified as PIGU. Stratified multiple logistic regression analysis showed gameplay of ≥1.5 hours/day led to more PIGU in the non-LSC traits group (higher DP group, p < 0.001; lower group, p = 0.019). In LSC trait group, in contrast, time spent on Internet gamine was not associated with PIGU regardless of the level of DP. Adolescents without LSC traits, to which most youths belong, might have higher possibility of PIGU if they do not limit their time spent on Internet gaming, regardless of whether they are depressed or not. In case of LSC trait, additional strategies would be needed. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02415322.