Online Gaming Addiction and Its Impact on the Mental Health of Primary School Students

Abstract

Gaming has long been a beloved source of entertainment, and today’s titles like Fortnite, Valorant, Rainbow 6 Siege, Apex Legends, and League of Legends have become a daily ritual for many. These games transcend age barriers, captivating players of all generations. Gaming has become a ubiquitous form of entertainment in the modern digital era, with online games attracting players of all ages, including primary school students. However, concerns about online gaming addiction and its detrimental effects on mental health have escalated. This paper investigates the prevalence of online gaming addiction among primary school students, identifies contributing factors, analyzes both the negative and positive effects, and assesses its implications for their mental well-being. Employing a mixed-methods approach incorporating surveys and interviews, this research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the complex relationship between online gaming addiction and mental health outcomes. The findings offer valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities for addressing this issue to support the well-being of primary school students in the digital age.