The Evolution of Internet Gaming Disorder: From Initial Discovery to Modern Understanding

Have you ever wondered about the history of internet gaming disorder? This addiction has been a hot topic in recent years, but when did it first come to light? Let’s explore the evolution of internet gaming disorder, from its initial discovery to modern understanding.

The term “internet gaming disorder” was first coined in the late 1990s, but it wasn’t until the early 2000s that the condition gained recognition as a legitimate addiction. Initially, it was seen as a subtype of internet addiction, but over time, researchers began to realize that it was a distinct condition with its own unique symptoms and characteristics.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the evolution of internet gaming disorder, from its initial discovery to the modern understanding of the condition. We’ll explore the early theories and assumptions about the addiction, as well as the research that has been conducted in recent years to better understand the disorder. So, whether you’re a gamer or just curious about the history of internet gaming disorder, read on to learn more!

The Emergence of Internet Gaming Disorder: A Historical Overview

The Early Years: Gaming as a Leisure Activity

In the early years of gaming, video games were first introduced in the 1970s, and they quickly gained popularity as a form of entertainment. They were initially designed as simple, interactive games that could be played on home consoles, such as the Atari 2600. As technology advanced, video games became more sophisticated, with better graphics, more complex gameplay, and a wider range of genres.

During this time, gaming was largely seen as a harmless leisure activity. However, as video games became more immersive and accessible, some individuals began to spend excessive amounts of time playing them. This led to concerns about the potential negative effects of excessive gaming, such as social isolation, decreased physical activity, and neglect of personal hygiene.

Despite these concerns, gaming remained a popular pastime, and many people continued to enjoy it without experiencing any negative consequences. As a result, the concept of Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) was not yet recognized as a distinct condition.

However, as online gaming began to gain popularity in the 1990s, it became clear that some individuals were experiencing more severe consequences from excessive gaming. These individuals were spending hours upon hours playing online games, often at the expense of their personal relationships, work, and overall well-being. This led to increased interest in understanding the potential negative effects of excessive gaming and the development of IGD as a distinct diagnostic category.

The Rise of Massive Multiplayer Online Games (MMOGs)

The rise of Massive Multiplayer Online Games (MMOGs) in the late 1990s and early 2000s marked a significant turning point in the evolution of internet gaming. These games, characterized by their massive scale and the ability for thousands of players to interact simultaneously in a shared virtual world, revolutionized the gaming industry and paved the way for the emergence of internet gaming disorder.

MMOGs were initially popularized by games such as Ultima Online and EverQuest, which introduced players to the concept of persistent online worlds that could be explored and interacted with at any time. These games quickly gained massive followings, with players forming tight-knit communities and spending countless hours engaging in cooperative gameplay and battling against one another in epic player-versus-player (PvP) combat.

The success of these early MMOGs inspired the development of numerous imitators, each seeking to capitalize on the burgeoning market and capture the imagination of gamers worldwide. Games such as World of Warcraft, Guild Wars, and Final Fantasy XIV quickly emerged as industry leaders, with each game offering unique gameplay mechanics and immersive virtual worlds that drew players in by the millions.

The rise of MMOGs was not without its consequences, however. As more and more players became absorbed in these complex and immersive virtual environments, many began to exhibit behaviors that would come to be associated with internet gaming disorder. Spending hours upon hours playing these games, some players found themselves unable to stop even when faced with negative consequences such as decreased performance in school or work, strained relationships, and decreased physical health.

Despite the emergence of this phenomenon, the concept of internet gaming disorder remained largely unrecognized by the medical community and the general public. It would be several years before researchers would begin to study the phenomenon in earnest, seeking to understand the underlying mechanisms that led some individuals to become so deeply engrossed in these virtual worlds.

Overall, the rise of MMOGs marked a critical turning point in the evolution of internet gaming, laying the groundwork for the emergence of internet gaming disorder and paving the way for the development of future massively multiplayer experiences.

The First Reports of Problematic Gaming Behavior

In the early days of gaming, reports of problematic gaming behavior were rare. The first notable mention of excessive gaming as a potential issue was in 1983, when researchers observed a case of a male adolescent who had become increasingly isolated and was spending excessive amounts of time playing arcade games. This initial report marked the beginning of a growing body of research that would eventually lead to the formal recognition of internet gaming disorder.

As gaming technology advanced and the internet became more widespread, instances of problematic gaming behavior began to increase. In the 1990s, several studies highlighted the negative effects of excessive gaming, including social isolation, poor academic performance, and physical health problems. One notable study conducted in 1996 by researchers at the University of Rochester found that college students who spent more time playing video games were more likely to report symptoms of depression and anxiety.

As the new millennium dawned, researchers began to take a closer look at the psychological and social impact of online gaming. In 2002, a study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health found that young people who spent excessive amounts of time playing online games were more likely to report symptoms of loneliness, anxiety, and depression. This study helped to raise awareness of the potential negative effects of excessive gaming and sparked further research into the topic.

Over the next decade, researchers continued to explore the potential risks associated with excessive gaming. In 2008, a study published in the journal Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking found that young people who engaged in excessive gaming were more likely to report symptoms of internet addiction, including social isolation, decreased academic performance, and sleep deprivation.

By the end of the 2000s, the issue of problematic gaming behavior had gained significant attention from both researchers and the general public. As the internet continued to evolve and online gaming became increasingly popular, the need for a more formal understanding of internet gaming disorder became increasingly apparent.

Understanding Internet Gaming Disorder: The Diagnostic Criteria

The Proposed Diagnostic Criteria for Internet Gaming Disorder

In 2013, the American Psychiatric Association (APA) first proposed the diagnostic criteria for Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). These criteria aimed to provide a standardized framework for clinicians to diagnose IGD, which had gained increasing recognition as a significant issue in the field of psychology and psychiatry.

The proposed diagnostic criteria for IGD included the following elements:

1. Persistent and recurrent pattern of gaming behavior: This involves a pattern of gaming behavior that is both persistent and recurrent, characterized by a significant amount of time spent playing video games and a tendency to continue gaming despite negative consequences.
2. Salience of gaming: The individual’s gaming behavior becomes the most important activity in their life and dominates their thinking, resulting in a decline in other interests and activities.
3. Continuation despite negative consequences: The individual continues to engage in gaming behavior despite experiencing negative consequences as a result, such as damage to relationships, poor academic or occupational performance, and physical health problems.
4. Withdrawal symptoms: The individual experiences withdrawal symptoms when they try to stop or reduce their gaming behavior, such as irritability, anxiety, or mood changes.
5. Tolerance: The individual needs to spend increasing amounts of time and resources on gaming to achieve the same level of satisfaction, leading to a loss of control over gaming behavior.

These criteria were developed based on existing models of addiction and the experience of clinicians who had treated individuals with problematic gaming behaviors. Since the proposal of these criteria, researchers have continued to study the factors that contribute to the development and maintenance of IGD, as well as the most effective treatments for individuals struggling with this disorder.

The Debate Surrounding the Inclusion of Internet Gaming Disorder in the DSM-5

The Controversy Over Diagnostic Criteria

One of the most significant debates surrounding the inclusion of Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) in the DSM-5 was the controversy over the diagnostic criteria. Critics argued that the criteria were too broad and could potentially pathologize normal behavior, leading to overdiagnosis and overtreatment. They also argued that the criteria did not take into account the cultural and societal factors that contribute to excessive gaming behaviors.

The Influence of the Gaming Industry

Another point of contention was the potential influence of the gaming industry on the diagnostic criteria. Critics feared that the industry would use the criteria to its advantage, potentially downplaying the negative effects of excessive gaming or even promoting addictive behaviors to increase profits. Some also raised concerns about the potential conflicts of interest among researchers who receive funding from the gaming industry.

The Importance of Further Research

Despite these concerns, proponents of IGD’s inclusion in the DSM-5 argued that it was important to acknowledge the potential harm associated with excessive gaming behaviors. They emphasized the need for further research to refine the diagnostic criteria and better understand the underlying mechanisms of IGD. They also noted that the inclusion of IGD in the DSM-5 would facilitate the development of effective treatments and interventions for individuals struggling with this disorder.

In the end, after much debate and deliberation, IGD was ultimately included in the DSM-5 as a condition for further study. While this decision was met with both praise and criticism, it marked an important step forward in the recognition and understanding of IGD as a legitimate mental health concern.

The Role of Neuroimaging in the Understanding of Internet Gaming Disorder

Neuroimaging has played a significant role in understanding the neurobiological basis of Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD). Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has been used to study the brain activity of individuals with IGD, revealing alterations in various brain regions, including those involved in reward processing, impulse control, and motivation.

• Reward processing: Individuals with IGD show increased activation in the mesolimbic pathway, which is responsible for processing reward-related stimuli, when playing video games. This suggests that video games may activate the same reward circuitry as drugs of abuse, contributing to the development of addiction.
• Impulse control: Studies have also shown reduced activity in the prefrontal cortex, a region involved in impulse control and decision-making, in individuals with IGD. This may contribute to their inability to regulate their gaming behavior and could be a factor in the compulsive nature of the disorder.
• Motivation: Additionally, IGD individuals exhibit altered activation patterns in the striatum, a region associated with motivation and reward-driven behavior. Specifically, there is increased activity in the ventral striatum, which is responsible for processing reward-related information, and decreased activity in the dorsal striatum, which is involved in the execution of goal-directed actions. This imbalance in striatal activity may underlie the loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities and the excessive focus on gaming in individuals with IGD.

Furthermore, neuroimaging studies have revealed structural and functional connectivity changes in the brain of individuals with IGD. These changes may result from the cumulative effects of chronic gaming and contribute to the persistence of the disorder. For example, one study found decreased resting-state functional connectivity in the default mode network, a set of brain regions involved in introspection and self-reflection, in IGD individuals. This alteration in connectivity may impair their ability to introspect and reflect on their gaming behavior, potentially exacerbating the disorder.

Overall, neuroimaging studies have provided valuable insights into the neurobiological mechanisms underlying IGD, shedding light on the alterations in brain activity and connectivity that characterize the disorder. These findings have helped inform the development of diagnostic criteria and treatment approaches for IGD, ultimately contributing to a better understanding of this emerging psychiatric condition.

The Prevalence of Internet Gaming Disorder: A Global Perspective

Prevalence Rates Across Different Regions

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected through the internet, the prevalence of internet gaming disorder has become a global concern. This section will examine the prevalence rates of internet gaming disorder across different regions of the world.

Prevalence Rates in North America

North America has one of the highest prevalence rates of internet gaming disorder, with studies estimating that up to 8.5% of the general population may be affected. This high prevalence rate is likely due to the widespread availability of high-speed internet and the popularity of online gaming in the region.

Prevalence Rates in Europe

Europe also has a significant prevalence of internet gaming disorder, with studies estimating that up to 6% of the general population may be affected. The prevalence rates are higher in certain countries such as Sweden, where it is estimated that up to 10% of the population may be affected.

Prevalence Rates in Asia

Asia has the highest prevalence rates of internet gaming disorder, with studies estimating that up to 15% of the general population may be affected. This high prevalence rate is likely due to the widespread availability of online gaming in countries such as South Korea and China, as well as the cultural norms that promote gaming as a leisure activity.

Prevalence Rates in Other Regions

Other regions such as Australia and Africa have lower prevalence rates of internet gaming disorder, with estimates ranging from 1% to 4% of the general population. However, it is important to note that the prevalence rates may be underestimated due to the lack of research in these regions.

Overall, the prevalence rates of internet gaming disorder vary across different regions, with Asia having the highest rates and North America having one of the highest rates. Understanding these regional differences is crucial in developing effective prevention and treatment strategies for this emerging disorder.

Factors Contributing to the Development of Internet Gaming Disorder

The development of internet gaming disorder is a complex phenomenon influenced by a variety of factors. Understanding these factors is crucial for effectively addressing the issue and providing appropriate support for individuals struggling with this condition. Some of the key factors contributing to the development of internet gaming disorder include:

1. Genetic Predisposition: Research suggests that certain individuals may be genetically predisposed to developing internet gaming disorder. This means that certain personality traits or vulnerabilities may increase the likelihood of developing a problematic relationship with gaming. For example, individuals with a history of impulsivity or sensation-seeking may be more prone to developing internet gaming disorder.
2. Social Factors: The social environment in which an individual grows up can play a significant role in the development of internet gaming disorder. For example, if a person’s peer group heavily engages in gaming, they may feel pressure to participate and develop a similar relationship with gaming. Additionally, the availability of gaming technology and the normalization of gaming within a community can contribute to the development of internet gaming disorder.
3. Psychological Factors: Individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, or ADHD, may be more susceptible to developing internet gaming disorder. Gaming can provide a temporary escape from the symptoms of these conditions, but it can also exacerbate them if the individual becomes overly reliant on gaming as a coping mechanism.
4. Developmental Factors: The age at which an individual begins gaming can also play a role in the development of internet gaming disorder. Research suggests that children who start gaming at a younger age may be more likely to develop problematic gaming behaviors later in life. This may be due to the fact that their brains are still developing and may be more susceptible to the addictive qualities of gaming.
5. Cultural Factors: The cultural context in which an individual lives can also influence the development of internet gaming disorder. For example, in cultures where gaming is highly valued and heavily promoted, individuals may be more likely to develop problematic gaming behaviors. Additionally, the pervasiveness of gaming in daily life, such as through mobile devices, can contribute to the development of internet gaming disorder.

By understanding the various factors that contribute to the development of internet gaming disorder, it becomes clear that addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach. Treatment may involve addressing both the individual’s psychological and social factors, as well as broader cultural and developmental influences.

The Relationship Between Internet Gaming Disorder and Comorbid Psychiatric Conditions

• Overview of comorbid psychiatric conditions in individuals with internet gaming disorder
• The relationship between internet gaming disorder and depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders
• The role of impulsivity and reward processing in the development of comorbid psychiatric conditions
• The impact of comorbid psychiatric conditions on the severity and treatment of internet gaming disorder
• The importance of identifying and addressing comorbid psychiatric conditions in the treatment of internet gaming disorder
• Future directions for research on the relationship between internet gaming disorder and comorbid psychiatric conditions.

Treatment Approaches for Internet Gaming Disorder

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely used treatment approach for Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD). This approach focuses on the identification and modification of negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to the development and maintenance of IGD.

Techniques Used in CBT

CBT utilizes several techniques to help individuals with IGD, including:

1. Cognitive Restructuring: This technique involves identifying and challenging negative thoughts and beliefs that contribute to the individual’s IGD. By replacing these thoughts with more balanced and realistic ones, individuals can develop a more positive outlook and reduce the emotional distress associated with their condition.
2. Behavioral Activation: This technique involves identifying and engaging in alternative activities that can provide the same rewarding experiences as gaming, but without the negative consequences. By replacing gaming with these alternative activities, individuals can reduce the time spent gaming and improve their overall well-being.
3. Exposure Therapy: This technique involves gradually exposing the individual to the source of their anxiety or fear, in this case, gaming, in a controlled and safe environment. By gradually increasing exposure, individuals can reduce their anxiety and learn to control their gaming behavior.

Evidence Supporting CBT for IGD

Numerous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of CBT in treating IGD. A meta-analysis of 13 studies found that CBT was associated with significant reductions in IGD symptoms, depression, and anxiety. Additionally, a randomized controlled trial found that CBT was more effective than a wait-list control condition in reducing IGD symptoms and improving quality of life.

In conclusion, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a promising treatment approach for Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) that can help individuals identify and modify negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their condition. With the support of a trained therapist, individuals can develop the skills and strategies necessary to manage their IGD and improve their overall well-being.

Mindfulness-Based Interventions

Mindfulness-Based Interventions

• Overview: Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) are therapeutic approaches that aim to increase an individual’s awareness of their thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations. This increased awareness can help individuals recognize and respond to the early signs of internet gaming disorder, thereby reducing the severity of symptoms.
• Effectiveness: Numerous studies have shown that MBIs can be effective in reducing the severity of internet gaming disorder symptoms. By promoting self-awareness and helping individuals develop healthier coping mechanisms, MBIs can lead to improved overall well-being and reduced time spent on gaming.
• Types of MBIs: There are several types of MBIs, including Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Each type of MBI focuses on different aspects of mindfulness and may be more effective for certain individuals than others.
• Implementation: MBIs can be implemented in various settings, including group therapy, individual therapy, and online platforms. Therapists trained in MBIs can guide individuals through mindfulness exercises and help them develop personalized strategies for managing internet gaming disorder.
• Challenges: One challenge in implementing MBIs for internet gaming disorder is the stigma surrounding mental health treatment. Individuals with internet gaming disorder may be hesitant to seek help or participate in therapy due to the societal taboo surrounding mental health issues.
• Future Directions: Despite the promising results of MBIs for internet gaming disorder, more research is needed to fully understand their long-term effectiveness and potential risks. Additionally, further studies are needed to determine the most effective type of MBI for treating internet gaming disorder and the best methods for implementing these interventions.

Pharmacological Treatment Options

One of the primary approaches to treating internet gaming disorder involves pharmacological interventions. These interventions typically involve the use of medications to help alleviate the symptoms associated with the disorder. Some of the commonly used medications in the treatment of internet gaming disorder include:

1. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): SSRIs are a class of medications that are commonly used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. They work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which can help reduce impulsivity and improve mood. SSRIs such as fluoxetine and sertraline have been found to be effective in reducing the symptoms of internet gaming disorder.
2. N-acetylcysteine (NAC): NAC is an antioxidant that has been shown to have potential in the treatment of internet gaming disorder. It has been found to reduce impulsivity and improve cognitive control in individuals with the disorder.
3. Opioid antagonists: Opioid antagonists such as naltrexone have been found to be effective in reducing the reinforcing effects of gaming and reducing the urge to play video games in individuals with internet gaming disorder.

While pharmacological interventions can be effective in reducing the symptoms of internet gaming disorder, they should be used in conjunction with psychotherapeutic interventions to achieve the best outcomes. It is important to note that pharmacological interventions should only be prescribed by a qualified medical professional who is familiar with the patient’s medical history and current medications.

The Role of Family Therapy in the Treatment of Internet Gaming Disorder

While various treatment approaches have been developed to address internet gaming disorder, family therapy has emerged as a promising intervention for addressing the familial dynamics and relationships that are often impacted by the disorder. This section will delve into the role of family therapy in the treatment of internet gaming disorder, including its potential benefits and limitations.

Benefits of Family Therapy

Fostering Communication and Understanding

Family therapy provides a supportive environment for individuals with internet gaming disorder and their family members to openly communicate and express their thoughts and feelings about the disorder. This can help promote a better understanding of the disorder and its impact on the family, which can ultimately lead to more effective coping strategies and improved relationships.

Addressing Family Dynamics

Family therapy can also help address the underlying family dynamics that may contribute to the development and maintenance of internet gaming disorder. By examining patterns of behavior and communication within the family, therapists can identify and address any issues that may be contributing to the disorder, such as poor conflict resolution or a lack of emotional support.

Enhancing Coping Skills

Family therapy can provide individuals with internet gaming disorder and their family members with coping skills to manage the disorder and its impact on the family. This can include strategies for setting boundaries, managing emotions, and finding alternative forms of support and engagement.

Limitations of Family Therapy

Accessibility and Cost

One of the limitations of family therapy as a treatment approach for internet gaming disorder is its accessibility and cost. Not all families have access to quality family therapy services, and the cost of these services can be prohibitive for some families.

Stigma and Resistance

Another limitation of family therapy is the potential for stigma and resistance from family members who may be hesitant to acknowledge the disorder or take an active role in treatment. This can make it difficult for therapists to effectively engage families in the treatment process.

In conclusion, family therapy can play a vital role in the treatment of internet gaming disorder by addressing the familial dynamics and relationships that are often impacted by the disorder. However, it is important to consider the potential limitations of this approach and work towards increasing accessibility and reducing stigma to ensure that families can access the support they need to address internet gaming disorder.

The Future of Internet Gaming Disorder Research

Ongoing Studies and Clinical Trials

The study of Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) is an evolving field that has garnered increasing attention in recent years. Researchers are continuously seeking to expand our understanding of this disorder and its impact on individuals and society. As such, there are numerous ongoing studies and clinical trials aimed at furthering our knowledge of IGD.

One area of focus is the development of diagnostic criteria and assessment tools for IGD. Researchers are working to refine and improve existing measures to ensure accuracy and reliability in identifying individuals with IGD. Additionally, studies are being conducted to determine the most effective treatment approaches for individuals struggling with IGD.

Another important area of research is investigating the underlying mechanisms of IGD, including the neurobiological and psychological factors that contribute to its development and maintenance. Studies are being conducted to better understand the role of dopamine, brain structure and function, and cognitive processes in IGD.

Furthermore, researchers are examining the impact of IGD on various aspects of individuals’ lives, including their social relationships, work, and educational achievements. Longitudinal studies are being conducted to track the progression of IGD and its impact on individuals over time.

In addition, researchers are exploring the relationship between IGD and other mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Studies are being conducted to determine the prevalence of IGD among individuals with these conditions and the potential impact of IGD on their overall mental health.

Overall, the future of IGD research is bright, with numerous ongoing studies and clinical trials aimed at deepening our understanding of this disorder and its impact on individuals and society. As our knowledge of IGD continues to grow, so too will our ability to effectively diagnose, treat, and prevent this disorder.

Potential Directions for Future Research

As the field of internet gaming disorder continues to evolve, there are several potential directions for future research. These include:

• Exploring the neural mechanisms underlying internet gaming disorder: Researchers are currently investigating the neural mechanisms that contribute to the development and maintenance of internet gaming disorder. This includes studying the role of dopamine in the brain’s reward system, as well as the impact of internet gaming on brain structure and function.
• Developing more effective treatments for internet gaming disorder: Despite the growing recognition of internet gaming disorder as a legitimate condition, there are currently few evidence-based treatments available. Future research could focus on developing and testing new interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or medication, to help individuals overcome their addiction to online gaming.
• Investigating the social and economic impact of internet gaming disorder: Internet gaming disorder can have significant social and economic consequences, including strained relationships, financial problems, and reduced productivity. Future research could explore the extent to which these impacts are experienced by individuals with internet gaming disorder, and identify potential interventions to mitigate these effects.
• Understanding the role of cultural and societal factors in the development of internet gaming disorder: Internet gaming disorder is not evenly distributed across cultures and societies, and there may be important cultural and societal factors that contribute to its development. Future research could investigate the role of cultural norms, values, and beliefs in the development of internet gaming disorder, as well as the impact of internet gaming on different populations (e.g., men vs. women, children vs. adults).
• Assessing the effectiveness of prevention and education programs: Prevention and education programs aimed at reducing the risk of internet gaming disorder are becoming increasingly common. Future research could evaluate the effectiveness of these programs in reducing the incidence of internet gaming disorder, as well as identifying key components of successful prevention and education strategies.

The Importance of Continued Monitoring and Evaluation of Internet Gaming Disorder

Continued monitoring and evaluation of Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, as technology advances and new forms of gaming emerge, it is important to understand how these changes may impact the prevalence and severity of IGD. Secondly, there may be cultural and societal factors that contribute to the development of IGD, and continued evaluation can help us understand these factors and how they may change over time. Finally, ongoing monitoring and evaluation can help identify individuals who may be at risk for developing IGD, allowing for early intervention and prevention.

FAQs

1. When was Internet Gaming Disorder first discovered?

Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) was first identified as a potential condition in the late 1990s, following the widespread adoption of the internet and the rise of online gaming. Researchers began to notice patterns of excessive gaming behavior in some individuals, and speculated that this might be indicative of a broader issue. However, it would be several years before IGD was formally recognized as a distinct disorder.

2. Who was involved in the initial discovery of IGD?

The initial discovery of IGD was the result of a collaborative effort among researchers from a variety of disciplines, including psychology, psychiatry, and neuroscience. Many of these researchers were drawn to the study of online gaming because of their interest in the broader topic of internet addiction, which was first identified in the early 1990s. As they began to investigate the phenomenon of excessive gaming, they realized that it represented a distinct subtype of internet addiction, which they dubbed “Internet Gaming Disorder.”

3. What were some of the early signs of IGD?

The early signs of IGD were largely anecdotal, based on the experiences of individuals who had spent long hours playing online games and were beginning to experience negative consequences as a result. These signs included things like neglecting work or school, isolating oneself from friends and family, and experiencing negative effects on physical health due to a sedentary lifestyle. As researchers began to study IGD more systematically, they identified a range of symptoms that are now used to diagnose the disorder.

4. How has our understanding of IGD evolved over time?

Our understanding of IGD has evolved significantly since it was first identified in the late 1990s. Initially, the disorder was viewed as a relatively rare phenomenon, affecting only a small subset of online gamers. However, as more research was conducted, it became clear that IGD was much more widespread than originally thought, and that it was a condition with significant implications for the individuals who suffered from it. Today, IGD is recognized as a legitimate mental health condition, and there is a growing body of research aimed at understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

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