Resilience and Depressivity among Czech Adolescents in Relation to Internet Gaming Disorder: Representative Sample

INTRODUCTION: Existing research highlights current issues in youth mental health that are often related to the overuse of modern technology, the experience of depression, or reduced resilience to mental stress. The main aim of this study is to analyse the relationships between Internet Gaming Disorder, depression, and resilience, with a focus on gender differences among Czech adolescents.

METHODS: A quantitative research design was chosen for the study. Three assessment instruments were utilised – the Internet Gaming Disorder ScaleShort Form (IGDS9-SF), the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-21 (DASS-21), and the Child and Youth Resilience Measure-Revised (CYRM-R). The sample consisted of a representative group of 7th grade pupils comprising 1240 individuals from 45 schools in all regions of the Czech Republic, aged 12–16 years.

RESULTS: Multiple linear regression analyses revealed that gender, resilience, and depression significantly predicted Internet Gaming Disorder symptoms and explained 26% variance in these symptoms. With male gender being the strongest predictor and reduced resilience the weakest.

CONCLUSIONS: These findings can be used to plan effective preventive measures and appropriate interventions for high-risk gaming, depression, and the use of protective factors such as individual resilience.