Cognitive Distortions in Online Gaming Addiction: A Gender-Based Analysis of University Students

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31637/epsir-2025-1653

Keywords:

online games, addiction, erroneous beliefs, gender, students, behavioral, pathological gambling, gambling addiction

Abstract

Introduction: Online gaming addiction is a growing phenomenon affecting people of all ages. This study examines gender-related cognitive distortions among university students who participate in online gaming and their relationship with participation frequency. Methodology: A total of 382 students aged 18 to 33 participated, with 24.1% being between 18 and 22 years old, 38.9% between 23 and 27, and 37% between 28 and 33. Students completed a questionnaire on their gaming habits and the Gamblers Belief’s Questionnaire (QBG), which measures cognitive distortions such as "illusion of control" and "perseverance in gaming." Results: The results showed that male students scored higher in both factors. Additionally, positive correlations were found between gaming frequency and the number of cognitive distortions. Discussion: These findings suggest that interventions and prevention strategies for online gaming addiction should consider gender differences and adapt treatment approaches to the specific needs of each group. Further research is recommended to better understand the mechanisms underlying these differences and develop more effective interventions.

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Author Biographies

Juan Andrés Samaniego Gisbert, Universidad Isabel I

Juan Andrés Samaniego Gisbert is a psychologist with clinical experience, specialized in basic psychological processes, neuropsychology and forensic psychology. He has a degree in Psychology from the UNED and a Master's degree in General Health Psychology from the International University of La Rioja (UNIR). He has also been accredited as an expert in forensic psychology by the General Council of Colleges of Psychologists. He is currently pursuing his PhD in Psychology at the University of Alicante, focusing on intervention in behavioral disorders and the application of ICT in education for people with disabilities. At the teaching level, she teaches in the Master in Forensic Psychology and in the Degree in Psychology at the University Isabel I.

Raquel Suriá Martínez, University of Alicante

Raquel Suriá Martínez holds a PhD in Psychology from the University of Alicante, with Extraordinary Doctorate Award. Currently, she is a full professor in the Department of Communication and Social Psychology and tutor at UNED. Her main areas of research are the psychosocial inclusion of young people with disabilities and the effects of gender violence on minors. She has published more than 80 scientific articles and has presented more than 100 papers at national and international conferences. Her research has been widely recognized, accumulating more than 2300 citations and an H index of 27.

Nerea Ibáñez Torres, Universidad de Alicante

Nerea Ibáñez Torres has a degree in Psychology from UNED, a Master's degree in General Health Psychology from CEU Cardenal Herrera University and a PhD from the University of Alicante. She specializes in the treatment of mental disorders, intervention in gender violence and psychological support in sports. Her clinical practice includes individual and couple therapy, with emphasis on emotional regulation and trauma treatment. In addition, she has collaborated as an internship tutor in several universities and has participated in research projects on mental health and sport.

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Published

2025-02-13

How to Cite

Samaniego Gisbert, J. A., Suriá Martínez, R., & Ibáñez Torres, N. (2025). Cognitive Distortions in Online Gaming Addiction: A Gender-Based Analysis of University Students. European Public & Social Innovation Review, 10, 1–14. https://doi.org/10.31637/epsir-2025-1653

Issue

Vol. 10 (2025)

Section

Humanism and Social Sciences

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Copyright (c) 2025 Juan Andrés Samaniego Gisbert, Raquel Suriá Martínez, Nerea Ibáñez Torres

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