Effect of Addictive Gaming on Empathy and Alexithymia among Young Adults

Abstract

For the past few years gaming has been in talks among scientists and researchers due to its alarming influence on children as well as adults. Many theories have been formed on addictive gaming behaviour and its psychological as well as physical impact on the young generation. A substantial body of research shows how excess gaming is interlinked with various mental health issues such as depression, social anxiety, lack of motivation and many more. In the current study, a sample of 51 aged 18-25 years, has been studied to examine the effect of addictive gaming behaviour on empathy and alexithymia among young adults. Standardized scales were used to measure empathy, alexithymia, and game addiction in young adults. The study concluded a significant negative correlation between game addiction and empathy and a significant positive correction between alexithymia and game addiction was also found. Further, the increment in involvement in sports complexes and offline board games was suggested.