Videogame addiction linked to ADHD, depression in men

Addiction to video games in young, single men may function as an escape mechanism for underlying psychiatric disorders such as ADHD and depression, a new study suggests.
"Video game addiction is more prevalent among younger men, and among those not being in a current relationship, than others," said Cecilie Schou Andreassen, from the University of Bergen in Norway.
Schou Andreassen carried out the study with more than 20,000 participants who answered questions related to videogame addiction.
The study showed that video game addiction appears to be associated with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder, and depression.
"Excessively engaging in gaming may function as an escape mechanism for, or coping with, underlying psychiatric disorders in attempt to alleviate unpleasant feelings, and to calm restless bodies," said Schou Andreassen.

The study shows some clear tendencies as to which people develop addictive use of social media, researchers said.

"The study implies that younger with some of these characteristics could be targeted regarding preventing development of an unhealthy gaming pattern," said Schou Andreassen.
The study also showed that addiction related to videogames and computer activities exhibit sex differences.
"Men seem generally more likely to become addicted to online gaming, gambling, and cyber-pornography, while women to social media, texting, and online shopping," Schou Andreassen said.
The study was published in the journal Psychology of Addictive Behaviours.