Gaming disorder: prevalence in a representative sample of Polish gamers.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of gaming disorder (GD) according to ICD-11 diagnostic criteria in a representative sample of Polish gamers.

METHODS

This epidemiological study included responses from 2,738 gamers recruited through an external research panel. A survey of available data describing Polish gamers was conducted to ensure that the study group constituted a representative sample. Prevalence was determined using a set of self-report questionnaires.

RESULTS

The prevalence of GD in the representative sample of Polish gamers was 2.9% (n = 80). However, using a conservative calculation approach, a potential GD diagnosis could be attributed to 0.6% (n = 16) of participants. The study also developed a basic sociodemographic profile of Polish gamers, identifying variables associated with GD, such as age.

CONCLUSIONS

Gaming disorder affects a percentage of Polish gamers, which echoes findings from studies in other European countries. This is the first attempt to estimate the prevalence of GD in a representative sample of Polish gamers. The results highlight the need for further research, particularly among children and adolescents.