Gaming as a coping strategy during the COVID-19 pandemic

• DOI: 10.5817/cp2023-3-3
• Publication Date: 2023-07-02T16:22:07Z
• Authors: Rebecca Lewinson; Jeffrey Wardell; Naama Kronstein; Karli Rapinda; Tyler Kempe; Joel Katz; Hyoun Kim; Matthew Keough
• Keywords: Pandemic; Longitudinal Study; Distancing; Vulnerability; Social distance; Social Isolation

Early in the COVID-19 pandemic, social interactions were constrained by physical distancing guidelines. Consequently, some individuals may have turned to video games cope with isolation and negative emotions. Previous studies shown that people who struggle anxiety depression are at particular risk for developing problem gaming behaviours. However, there is a paucity of longitudinal research testing pathways from emotionality behaviours, especially during pandemic. Accordingly, we conducted multi-wave study predicted high levels emotional vulnerability (anxiety depression) first month pandemic would prospectively relate elevated time spent related problems six months later. We also coping motives mediate these associations. A sample 332 Canadian gamers (Mage = 33.79; 60.8% men) completed three surveys on Prolific, occurring April 2020 (one-month after declared state emergency) subsequent spaced apart. High initial excessive gaming, as well problems, into Elevated uniquely mediated pathways. This show was factor coping-related As continue longer-lasting impacts it will be important mood issues find more effective ways coping.