Elucidating the Impact of Socioeconomic Status on Adolescent Internet Gaming Disorder Using the Family Affluence Scale

This study examined the relationship between family socioeconomic status (SES) and adolescent internet gaming disorder (IGD). A total of 94 schools were invited to participate in the study; 3123 students were enrolled from 32 schools, and data were collected through a self-report survey. The Family Affluence Scale (FAS) was used to assess SES, and the Internet Gaming Use-Elicited Symptom Screen (IGUESS) was used to measure IGD risk. Statistical analysis involved ANOVAs, chi-square tests, logistic regression, exploratory factor analysis, and latent factor analysis (LCA). SES, as measured by the FAS, significantly influenced IGD risk. The low-affluence group had a higher risk of IGD than the high-affluence group (OR = 2.051). The findings highlight the importance of interventions for low-affluence adolescents in addressing IGD. In particular, the LCA analysis found that underprivileged children are a more vulnerable group to IGD. The FAS can be used to conduct practical assessments and aid in these efforts.