Psychological Effects of FIFA, PES, and Clash of Clans Games on Young Men at Risk of Developing Internet Gaming Disorder

Abstract

Background: The present study aimed to investigate the psychological effects of FIFA, PES, and Clash of Clans games on young men at risk of developing internet gaming disorder (IGD). Methods: The sample consisted of 150 young men, 50 of whom were in the FIFA and PES group, 50 in the Clash of Clans group, and 50 in the control group. Two groups of young men at risk of developing IGD were compared with a control group. The participants completed the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ), Quality of Relationships Inventory (QRI), Game Addiction Scale, and Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF). Findings: The results of the study showed that the scores of mental health problems, conflict with friends, and executive function problems in the Clash of Clans group were significantly higher than those of the FIFA, PES, and control groups. Concerning conflict with parents, the FIFA group had a higher score than the Clash of Clans and control groups. In addition, the results indicated that gaming addiction affects mental health by affecting executive functions. Conclusion: The Clash of Clans game has more negative effects on psychological functions.