Psychometric Properties of the Video Game Dependency Scale in Children

Abstract

Background: Interest in the DSM-5 diagnosis of Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) has grown steadily. Multiple valid screening instruments for IGD exist from adolescence onward. Yet, even children might already be at risk of developing IGD, for which few psychometric scales exist. Objective: This study tests whether it is possible to replicate the psychometric properties of the Video Game Dependency Scale (CSAS) for children. Methods: We collected parent-report data from N = 842 children, aged 8 to 12 years, from a mixed school and clinical sample. We analyzed the data descriptively at total and item levels; we also conducted reliability and factor analyses. Results: In its parental version, the CSAS shows good and comparable psychometric properties for children compared to self-report data from adolescents. 2.7 % of the children fulfill the diagnostic threshold of an IGD. Conclusions: The CSAS reliably assesses IGD symptoms in children aged 8 years and above, thus enabling a lifespan perspective.