Exploring the Relationship Between Internet Gaming Disorder, Emotional Performance, and Autonomic Nervous System Regulation: A Mediation Analysis

Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) has become a significant concern due to its negative impact on emotional expression, interpersonal relationships, academic performance, and overall well-being. This study aimed to explore the relationship between IGD, emotion, and the regulation of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) by analyzing the mediation effects. Fifty-one participants were recruited and classified into high-risk IGD (HIGD) and low-risk IGD (LIGD) groups based on questionnaires. Physiological signals, including heart rate variability (HRV), were measured during gaming sessions. The results showed that HIGD users exhibited lower HRV during gaming, indicating impaired autonomic regulation. Additionally, the study found a negative correlation between HRV and happiness. However, the mediation analysis did not demonstrate a significant indirect effect between IGD risk, HRV, and emotion. Despite this, introducing the concept of mediator variables offers a new perspective for evaluating the relationship between IGD and ANS regulation. Further research with larger sample sizes is needed to validate and refine the mediator variable model. Understanding the emotional and physiological aspects of IGD can contribute to the development of effective prevention and intervention strategies for individuals experiencing problematic gaming behaviors.