The impact of video gaming on mental health and psychosocial functioning in children and adolescents: a narrative review

Vollständiger Abstract

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Background. Video gaming is one of the most common leisure activities among children and adolescents worldwide. Growing concerns about problematic gaming and Gaming Disorder have increased research on the impact of gaming on mental health and psychosocial functioning.Aim. This narrative review aimed to summarize and critically evaluate current evidence on the relationship between video gaming, mental health, and psychosocial functioning in children and adolescents.Material and methods. A narrative review was conducted using publications identified through PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The primary search focused on studies published between January 2014 and February 2026 examining associations between video gaming, mental health, and psychosocial functioning in individuals younger than 18 years. Seminal publications published before 2014 were also included to provide conceptual and historical context. Original studies, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses were considered.Results. Problematic gaming and Gaming Disorder are associated with increased risks of depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, psychosocial difficulties, and poorer academic functioning. In contrast, moderate gaming may provide cognitive, emotional, and social benefits, including improved problem-solving, cognitive flexibility, stress reduction, and opportunities for social interaction. The relationship between gaming and mental health is influenced by individual, familial, and environmental factors.Conclusions. Video gaming may exert both positive and negative effects on mental health and psychosocial functioning in children and adolescents. Gaming duration alone is a poor predictor of adverse outcomes; functional impairment, gaming motivations, and psychosocial context appear to be more important determinants. Promoting balanced gaming habits and early recognition of problematic gaming may maximize benefits while reducing potential harms.