Sustainable Development Goals
Abstract/Objectives
Research purpose: This study aims to investigate the relationship between actual and virtual self (cognition), online game peer influence (environment) and internet gaming disorder (behavior) using the triadic reciprocal causation (TRC). By analyzing the
variables, we want to provide a potential mechanism for internet gaming disorder (IGD).
TRC is often applied to explain addictive behaviors in past. According to the theory, both environmental and cognitive factors are important determinants of behaviors.
Literature indicated massively multiplayer online role playing game (MMORPG) players appear to be more vulnerable to potentially problematic gaming compared to other types of online gamers. Players gain social needs and self-esteem by interacting with the peers online and manipulating the game avatar.
Results/Contributions
Expected results and contribution: The present research hypothesizes that online game peer influence is a mediating factor of the relationship between cognitive factors, including actual and virtual self and IGD.
Should the hypothesis be proven as true, the result of this study can expand on the topic of IGD and serve as a reference point for future research. With the added layer of insight that this study could bring, IGD should be more easily approached, predicted, and with mitigating mechanisms devised.
Keywords
TRCinternet gaming disorderMMOGspeer influencecognitive self