The Relationship Between Digital Game Addiction and Loneliness and Social Dissatisfaction in Adolescents

Abstract

Background In this study, it was aimed to examine digital addiction, loneliness and social dissatisfaction among adolescents studying in Adıyaman, Turkey, and to determine the relationship with each other. Methodology Digital Game Addiction Scale for Children (DGASFC) and Loneliness and Social Dissatisfaction Questionnaire (LSDQ) were administered to 634 middle and high school students. A questionnaire form was used as a data collection tool. Results DGASFC scores and LSDQ scores were found to be higher in males, in high school students, in those whose parents' education level was high school or above, in those whose parents lived separately, in those with good economic status, in those who were younger, and in those who were not restricted by their families. A significant positive correlation was found between DGASFC and LSDQ scores. Conclusions Digital addiction should be followed closely in terms of accompanying disorders or pathologies that predispose to it. In our study, it was found that digital game addiction, loneliness and social dissatisfaction decreased with age. However, this applies separately to middle school and high school groups. Because, despite their older age, high school adolescents have been found to be more digitally dependent, lonely and socially dissatisfied than secondary school students. Contrary to the studies in the literature, the risk of digital addiction, loneliness and social dissatisfaction was found to be low in those with low economic status.

Keywords: adolescent; digital addiction; digital game addiction; loneliness; screen time; social dissatisfaction.

Figure 1. Correlation of DGASFC total score

DGASFC: Digital Game Addiction Scale for Children; LSDQ: Loneliness and Social Dissatisfaction Questionnaire.