Effect of the Online Friendship Network on Internet Game Frequency and Time Among University Students in the Republic of Korea.

Abstract

Objective: In this study, we analyzed the effects of online friendship networks on Internet game frequency and time among university students.Methods: Our participants were 34 university students. Online friendship networks were analyzed by social network analysis and degree, closeness, and betweenness centrality. Internet game frequency showed the average frequency of playing Internet games during a week and Internet game time indicated the average time during the day. Results: The Out-degree centrality of online friendship networks, and Out-closeness centrality and Internet game time showed positive (+) correlations. In addition, analysis of causal relationships showed that only Out-degree centrality had a positive (+) effect on Internet game time. Conclusion: To prevent immersion in games and their negative effects, we recommend persons form relationship networks with other friends who have positive goals such as hobbies, leisure activities, and learning.