EXPLORING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ONLINE GAMING AND TEEN MENTAL HEALTH: A STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Abstract

In the digital age, online gaming has become a widespread activity among teenagers, offering entertainment, stress relief, and social interaction. However, excessive gaming may negatively impact mental health. This study investigates the effects of online gaming on teenagers' mental well-being, focusing on issues such as depression, aggression, addiction, and loneliness. A quantitative research design was employed, with data collected from 75 teenagers aged 10 to 20 enrolled in private schools in Sargodha. Participants completed a close-ended questionnaire assessing their gaming habits and related mental health experiences. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS, with Chi-square tests applied to examine associations between gaming behavior and psychological outcomes. The findings revealed that a significant proportion of teenagers experienced increased aggression (66.7%), emotional disturbance, and persistent thoughts about gaming, indicating signs of addiction. The results suggest a strong correlation between excessive gaming and mental health challenges, particularly among frequent users. While online gaming can offer cognitive and social benefits, its overuse poses serious risks to adolescents’ emotional and psychological health. The study recommends that parents, educators, and mental health professionals actively promote balanced gaming habits. Future research should incorporate diverse populations and qualitative methods to gain deeper insights into the emotional effects of gaming on youth.