Pattern of Computer Game Play and Emotional and Behavioral Characteristics in Upper Grade Elementary School Children

초등학교 고학년 아동의 컴퓨터 게임 양상과 정서 및 행동 특성

Objective : The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between the pattern of computer game play and emotional and behavioral characteristics of 5th and 6th grade elementary school children in Jeonju city. Methods : Fifth and sixth graders from two elementary schools (N=413, M=214, F=199) were chosen to participate in this study. The participants completed self-report questionnaires designed by the authors, and were also evaluated based on a computer game addiction scale, state-trait anxiety inventory for children, children's depression inventory and Piers-Harris children's self-esteem scale. The parents of the participants determined the disruptive behavior rating scale of the participants. Results : Positive links were reported between the pattern of computer game play (years of computer game experience, average length of each computer game play session, average time spent on computer game play per day, and average frequency of computer game play per week) and scores of computer game addiction scale. In addition, significant correlation was found between the internalized problems of children (trait anxiety, state anxiety, depression, and self-esteem), and computer game addiction scale score, among both sexes (p<0.01). There were significant correlations between game addiction scale score and inattention (p<0.01) as well as total attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) score (p<0.05) in girls. Conclusion : Our findings suggest that computer game addiction is related to symptoms of internalizing, particularly to the trait anxiety. Significant positive correlations between game addiction scale score and externalized behavioral problems were found only in girls.