FAMILY FACTORS OF ADOLESCENTS’ OVER-INVOLVEMENT IN VIDEO GAME ACTIVITIES

Abstract

Purpose. This study is aimed to identify the family factors that determine the level of older adolescents’ involvement into video game activities. The hypothesis of the study is the provision according to which the attitude of parents to the child is a key factor determining the involvement of the latter into gambling. Methodology and Approach. One of the objectives of the study is to identify the presence / absence of gender dependence of video gambling; localization of factors affecting the level of excessive involvement in video game activities. The study involved 52 boys and 78 girls (130 people). The methodological complex of the study included: a questionnaire of excessive involvement in video game activities; methodology “The behaviour of parents and adolescents’ attitude to them” (PoR). Results. As a result of the study, it was found that the number of girls with a low level of involvement is higher than boys. The indicator of excessive involvement is statistically significantly associated with the frequency and duration of gaming sessions, as well as with the money spent on acquiring gaming programs. Considering the relationship of excessive involvement in video game activities with family characteristics, a positive relationship was obtained with the indicators “father’s inconsistency”, “father’s autonomy”, “father’s directive”, “mother’s hostility” and the inverse correlation with the indicator “mother’s positive interest”. Theoretical and Practical Implications. Significant new factors were identified that influence the level of excessive involvement in video game activities due to the family background and their effect is described. The findings deepen our understanding of the factors that influence video game addiction.

Keywords

• video games
• excessive involvement
• video game addiction
• family factors
• adolescents