A Pilot Study of a Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Internet Gaming Disorder Among College-Aged Students in South Korea
摘要
Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) integrates cognitive therapy and mindfulness meditation to help individuals disengage from maladaptive thoughts and reactive behavioral patterns. By cultivating nonjudgmental present-moment awareness and decentering from thoughts and emotions, MBCT enhances the capacity to respond more skillfully, thereby reducing impulsivity and promoting self-control. This study pilot-tested the effectiveness of MBCT for internet gaming disorder (MBCT-G) among college-aged students at risk for problematic gaming, focusing on reducing symptoms of internet gaming disorder and secondarily on psychological benefits.
MethodA pilot experimental study was conducted in South Korea with 46 college-aged students at high risk of internet gaming disorder. The intervention group (n = 24) participated in eight group sessions of MBCT-G and a control group (n = 22) received no intervention. Internet gaming disorder, impulsivity, depressive symptoms, perceived stress, anxiety, and self-control were assessed before and after the intervention and at 4 weeks postintervention.
ResultsLinear mixed-model analyses indicated participants in the intervention group had greater reductions in internet gaming disorder symptoms, perceived stress, and state anxiety and enhanced improvement in self-control relative to the control group; these changes persisted at 4-week follow-up except for state anxiety.
ConclusionsFindings suggested MBCT-G is a promising intervention for college-aged students whose gaming is problematic and puts them at risk for gaming disorder. Further research is needed with a larger sample, a comparison group receiving an alternative intervention and a longer follow-up period.
PreregistrationThis study was not prospectively registered; however, it was retrospectively registered with ISRCTN Registry (# ISRCTN17598517).