ABSTRACT
Introduction: The increasing prevalence of gaming Disorder (GD) among adolescents has become a global concern. Despite the rising number of studies investigating GD, the cultural and socio-economic factors influencing GD with a qualitative approach are scarce. This study aims to explore the underlying factors, processes, and consequences of GD among Iranian male adolescents and contextual factors related to GD within Iran's unique socio-cultural and psychological tapestry. Methods: The study used a qualitative design based on the Grounded Theory Method (GTM). The researchers conducted semi-structured interviews with 13 male adolescents aged 15-18 who Dignasoed according to DSM-5 and ICD-11 criteria. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed using the GTM approach, which involves open, axial, and selective coding. Results: The study revealed nine main themes and a core category: (1) interaction seeking, (2) encounter and familiarize with games, (3) games attraction, (4) Socialization, (5) game careerism, (6) dexterity, (7) lack and compensation, (8) physical harm, territorial-cultural barrier, (9) second life, and ''life crafting'' as the core category. Discussion: The study's findings provide valuable insights into the cultural and socio-economic factors influencing GD among Iranian male adolescents. For example, Iran's economic conditions make adolescents choose gaming as their job and try to earn money in this way, which makes them more dependent on gaming. On the other hand, communities related to games play an essential role in the identity development of adolescents with GD.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Gaming disorder was added to the 11th version of the international classification of disease by the world health organization in early 2019. Adolescents are the most vulnerable group in this area. Thus, a screening tool for this age range is essential. This study aims to examine the psychometric properties of the gaming disorder scale for adolescents (GADIS-A) in an Iranian male sample. METHODS: 260 male students-7th to 12th grade-from Isfahan city in the academic year 2020-2021 were selected using convenience sampling. The participants responded to the Farsi version of the GADIS-A and problematic online game questionnaire (POGQ). Thirty participants answered the scale again to assess the validity of the retest. Pearson's correlation analysis, Cronbach's alpha, and confirmatory factor analysis were used. The data were analyzed by SPSS version 24 and R software packages psych and lavaan. RESULTS: Confirmatory factor analysis revealed that the two-factor model, which included cognitive-behavioral symptoms and negative consequences, had good fitness indices. The GADIS-A convergent validity is confirmed by the scale's significant correlation with the POGQ. Cronbach's alpha coefficient was used to determine the scale's validity, which was 0.85 for the full scale and 0.70 and 0.75 for two factors. The validity of the retest after two weeks also showed a correlation of 0.88. CONCLUSION: The Farsi version of the gaming disorder scale for adolescents has a two-factor structure and is valid for use in Iran.
