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Internet Gaming Addiction: The Case of Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games

  • Joël BillieuxEmail author
  • Jory Deleuze
  • Mark D. Griffiths
  • Daria J. Kuss
Reference work entry
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Abstract

Internet gaming disorder is one of the main types of Internet-related disorders. Recently, and despite inconsistencies in classification and limited data regarding the etiology of the condition, Internet gaming disorder has been included in Sect. 3 (research appendix) of the DSM-5. The focus of the current chapter was the dysfunctional involvement in a specific type of video game which has some inherent characteristics reinforcing its addictive nature: Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games (MMORPGs). MMORPGs are indeed one of the most recent and popular types of video games played worldwide, and problematic and uncontrolled involvement in playing MMORPGs is the most frequently reported activity by people seeking help for an Internet-related problem. In this chapter, we first described the specific structural characteristics of MMORPGs themselves (e.g., permanent world, reinforcement schedule, advancement systems, interface favoring social exchanges) and explained how they can increase their “addictive potential”. Then, the main psychological factors (motives to play, impulsivity traits) were reviewed alongside neurobiological features (e.g., changes in neural circuitry involved in controlled regulation of behavior and reward drive) related to the development and maintenance of MMORPG addiction. The few available studies having tested the efficacy of treatments targeting Internet and video game addictions were also briefly considered. Limitations of existing data are emphasized, and avenues for further research proposed (both at the theoretical and clinical levels).

Keywords

Video Game Internet Addiction Sensation Seek Online Game Internet Gaming Disorder 
These keywords were added by machine and not by the authors. This process is experimental and the keywords may be updated as the learning algorithm improves.
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Copyright information

© Springer-Verlag Italia 2015

Authors and Affiliations

  • Joël Billieux
    • 1
    Email author
  • Jory Deleuze
    • 1
  • Mark D. Griffiths
    • 2
  • Daria J. Kuss
    • 2
  1. 1.Laboratory for Experimental PsychopathologyPsychological Sciences Research Institute, Catholic University of LouvainLouvain-La-NeuveBelgium
  2. 2.International Gaming Research UnitNottingham Trent UniversityNottinghamUK

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