Pilot data findings from the Gothenburg treatment for gaming disorder: a cognitive behavioral treatment manual

Abstract

BackgroundGaming disorder (GD) is a new diagnosis included in the latest edition of the International Classification of Disease −11. Recently conducted international studies suggest a prevalence rate close to 2% for GD, highlighting the need for effective treatments for this patient population. Internationally there are few studies investigating effective treatments specifically designed for this condition. In this pilot study, we wanted to test a newly developed method, the Gothenburg Treatment for Gaming Disorder (GOT-TO-GO) manual; a 15-week cognitive behavioral therapy treatment for GD.MethodThis study utilized a single group design with pretest, post-test and a three- and six-month follow-up, with measures of severity of GD and mood. The participants (n = 28) were treatment-seeking adults with GD, aged 17 to 49 years.ResultsThe results show a statistically significant decrease in symptoms of GD after treatment. Hours of gaming per week also decreased concomitantly with a 100% increase in non-gaming leisure hours. The decrease in symptoms of GD was maintained at the 3-months follow-up after treatment. Correspondingly we saw a decrease in both depression and anxiety that also was upheld 3 months after treatment.ConclusionAs GD is a new diagnostic concept more research is needed, also taking psychiatric comorbidity into consideration, to arrive at evidence-based conclusions regarding effective treatments. Considering the promising results in this small pilot study with large behavioral changes and reduced symptoms of GD, upheld at least 3 months after treatment, a larger randomized controlled study is warranted.Clinical Trial Registration:https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/study/NCT05328596?term=NCT05328596&draw=2&rank=1, identifier NCT05328596.

Development of Gaming Disorder: Underlying Risk Factors and Complex Temporal Dynamics

“…From a clinical perspective, information on disorder dynamics over a shorter period may be more relevant than over a longer timeframe. For instance, the typical duration of treatment for GD ranges from several weeks to six months (Hofstedt et al, 2023;Zajac et al, 2019), whereas for substance abuse, the average is eight months (Walker, 2008). This evidence supports the use of a six-month follow-up in a longitudinal study design.…”

Recovery from gaming addiction: A thematic synthesis

“…Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is currently considered to be the gold standard of GD treatment (Stevens et al, 2019). Therapy covers topics such as stimulus control, cognitive restructuring, behavioural activation, relapse prevention and others (Hofstedt et al, 2023). Treatment usually lasts between 8 to 12 weeks, with follow up at 2 to 6 months (Stevens et al, 2019).…”