Assessment of Attentional Bias in Internet Gaming Disorder Using the Addiction Stroop Task and Event-Related Potentials

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran

2 Ibn-e-Sina and Dr Hejazi Psychiatry Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

3 Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran

4 The Park Center for Mental Health Treatment, Research and Education- West Moreton Hospital and Health Service- Queensland- Australia

Abstract

Background: Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) is a growing concern, impacting individuals’ daily lives. Understanding attentional biases in IGD is critical for effective intervention strategies. Methods: Attentional bias was assessed in IGD using the Addiction Stroop Task. Participants were divided into three groups: IGD, Recreational Game Users (RGU), and Controls. EEG/ERP data also were recorded and analyzed from electrodes C3, Cz, and C4. Results: The IGD group exhibited significantly larger P300 amplitude and delayed latency in response to both game and non-game words compared to RGU and Control groups. Also, impulsivity, anxiety and depression levels were significantly higher in the IGD group compared to the RGU and Control groups. Conclusion: In contrast to the traditional definition of attentional bias, which usually involves a preference for addiction-related cues, individuals with IGD exhibited heightened neural responses to both game and non-game cues, suggesting increased cognitive resource allocation and potential hyperarousal or altered neurobiological mechanisms.

Keywords

Addiction & Health

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 24 June 2024

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