Assessment of Attentional Bias in Internet Gaming Disorder Using the Addiction Stroop Task and Event-Related Potentials.

BACKGROUND

Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) is defined by a loss of control over gaming habits, prioritizing gaming above daily responsibilities, and persistent engagement despite detrimental outcomes. As a rising public health challenge, IGD significantly disrupts individuals' lives. Investigating attentional biases in IGD is vital for designing targeted interventions.

METHODS

Attentional bias was measured in individuals with IGD using the Addiction Stroop Task. The participants were classified into three cohorts: IGD, Recreational Game Users, and non-gaming controls. Electroencephalography/event-related potential (EEG/ERP) data were collected and analyzed from electrodes Pz, Cz, and CPz.

FINDINGS: Compared to the RGU and control groups, the IGD group displayed significantly greater P300 amplitudes and prolonged response latencies to both gaming-related and neutral stimuli. Furthermore, the IGD group reported elevated impulsivity, anxiety, and depression levels relative to the other groups.

CONCLUSION

Contrary to conventional attentional bias models in addiction-which emphasize preferential attention to addiction-related cues-individuals with IGD exhibited intensified neural reactivity to all stimuli. This suggests excessive cognitive resource mobilization, potentially indicative of hyperarousal or dysregulated neurobiological processes.