IGD is defined as, "persistent and recurrent use of the Internet to engage in games, often with other players, leading to clinically significant impairment or distress," by the American Psychiatric Association.

The study's authors noted that gamers' social tendencies, as determined by personality traits, may play a role in developing problematic gaming habits and addiction. When counselors understand the potential social context of clients' situations, they have more information to develop prevention and treatment strategies that treat the whole person and not just a diagnosis. More research is needed to understand the full interplay among personality, motivation, and IGD, along with demographic risk factors.

"I am excited to be publishing on the topic of IGD along with an elite group of researchers from a variety of fields, including psychology and information technology, to meet the need for research established by the American Psychiatric Association," said lead author Kristy L. Carlisle, PhD, of Old Dominion University. "One of my goals is to produce culturally responsive research that highlights the need for context in the diagnostic criteria proposed for IGD, including the social nature of the games and the level of simulation possible in them because of technology."