Abstract
Background
Adolescence is characterized by behaviors as well as, in some, internet gaming disorders, that may lead to suicidal ideation. Prior research has documented the relationships between oppositional defiant disorder and internet gaming addiction with suicidal ideation among adolescents, but none has studied the potential mediating role of self-control nor the moderation role of gender.
Objective
This study investigated the relationships between oppositional defiant disorder, internet gaming disorder, and suicidal ideation, and applied a moderated mediation model including the roles of gender and self-control.
Method
273 adolescents (mean age = 15.47, 57% females) participated in this study. Respondents completed the Suicidal Ideation Scale, the Internet Gaming Disorder Scale, Short Form, the Oppositional Defiant Scale, and the Self-Control Scale, as well as a set of socio-demographic questions. A moderated mediation model was applied using the PROCESS software package.
Results
As expected, oppositional defiant disorder and internet addiction were positively related with suicidal ideation. Self-control was found to mediate these relationships. Further, it was found that these relationships were stronger in females compared to males.
Conclusions
Efforts to reduce suicidal ideation among adolescents with defiant behaviors and gaming disorder should be directed at enhancing their self-control and should be gender mindful.