Predisposing factors of internet addiction and digital game addiction in adolescents: a predictive correlational study

Eur J Pediatr. 2026 Sep 8;185(10):727. doi: 10.1007/s00431-026-07397-1.

ABSTRACT

The present study aimed to investigate adolescents’ addictive behaviours, including Internet and digital gaming, and to identify predisposing factors for these problems. A predictive correlational study was adopted. The study involved 1824 students (aged 14-17 years) from three high schools in a city of Türkiye. The data were obtained using the Digital Game Addiction Scale and the Young Internet Addiction Test-Short Form. Linear regression analyses were used to analyse the data. Academic achievement, relationships with family and friends, online gaming, daily digital media use and addiction to digital games were associated with Internet addiction. On the other hand, academic level, sex, academic achievement, following social media, time spent playing online games daily and addiction to the Internet were associated with digital game addiction.

CONCLUSION: The study concluded that adolescents’ individual and internet- and gaming-related characteristics were associated with Internet addiction and online gaming addiction behaviours.

WHAT IS KNOWN: • Internet addiction and digital game addiction are growing global health problems and may lead to adverse psychological outcomes. • Further intervention programs are needed to prevent these addictive behaviours.

WHAT IS NEW: • This study simultaneously examines the predictors of both Internet addiction and digital game addiction in a large adolescent sample, allowing the identification of common and different risk factors. • While a previous study emphasized peer influence, this study highlights the quality of friendship as a factor associated with both Internet addiction and digital game addiction.

PMID:42706351 | DOI:10.1007/s00431-026-07397-1