Internet gaming disorder (IGD) had gain more attention recently as it has become a public health concern where it started affecting the younger generation, especially the school going adolescents. The main objective of this study is to investigate the prevalence of IGD among secondary school students between 16 to 18 years old and its associated factors in Malaysia. We also aim to explore the relationship between IGD and its correlation with the socio-demographic factors such as the gender and the parents’ relationship status. In addition, we further researched about the association of IGD with the types of parenting style perceived and self- esteem among the students. This study was conducted from April 2024 to June 2024 among the secondary school students in Klang region, Malaysia. A total of 377 students were recruited in the study and they were assessed with the socio- demographic questionnaire, the Internet Gaming Disorder Scale (Short Form) (IGDS9-SF), the Rosenberg Self Esteem Questionnaire (RSES) and the Parental Bonding Instrument (PBI), all available in English and Malay versions. All data was analyzed using SPSS version 27 using chi-square tests (and Fisher’s Exact Test) and the logistic regression analyses method. Results of the study showed 8.3% of the secondary school students were classified as having IGD and it was positively correlated with male students and individuals with low self-esteem. Concurrently, students who experienced neglectful parenting (low care and low protection) and affectionless control (high protection and low care) from their father have a higher incidence in having IGD. Investing possible parenting style training and having persistent awareness education program regarding IGD to the parents are imperative for all as the internet usage and gaming has becoming a trend worldwide. Excessive usage of the internet might lead to declining in the individuals’ functioning, especially to the adolescents who are in the vulnerable stage.
Dr Chiew Wei Chong
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