Introduction
Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) is a major concern due to its potential mental health consequences. This paper will review approaches to conceptualizing and treating IGD across three key diagnostic frameworks. They include the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM), and the International Classification of Diseases, Eleventh Revision (ICD- 11).
DSM-5 Perspective
In DSM-5, IGD is identified in Section III as a condition requiring further research before being considered for formal inclusion. This characterizes IGD as a persistent or recurrent preoccupation with Internet gaming that results in clinically significant impairment. DSM-5 limits the criteria to Internet gaming and does not include general Internet use or other online activities, such as gambling or social networking (Carlisle, 2020). Criteria focus on compulsive gaming behavior, exclusion of other interests, impaired functioning, withdrawal symptoms, and potential neurological similarities to substance dependence.
ICD-10-CM and ICD-11 Inclusion
ICD-10-CM and ICD-11 do not formally define Internet gaming disorder as a separate diagnostic entity. Both classification systems provide codes for other conditions that may overlap with aspects of IGD. For example, this could include behavioral addictions or impulse control disorders.
In ICD-10-CM, conditions like “Pathological Gambling” (F63.0) or “Other Gambling Disorder” (F63.9) might encompass some features seen in IGD. In ICD-11, “Gaming Disorder” (6C51) is recognized as a significant behavioral pattern. It is characterized by impaired control over gaming, prioritization of gaming over other interests, and persistence despite negative consequences (King et al. 2020). This classification is closely related to the DSM-5 conceptualization of IGD.
Comparative Analysis
In addressing the definition and criteria for Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD), both DSM-5 and ICD-11 emphasize the importance of persistent and repetitive gaming behavior that results in impairment or distress. According to the American Psychiatric Association (2013), “The ‘ gamers’ play compulsively, to the exclusion of other interests, and their persistent and recurrent online activity results in clinically significant impairment or distress.”
Both diagnostic systems emphasize features such as loss of control, neglect of other activities, and continuation despite negative consequences. However, the ICD-10-CM classifies gaming issues under broader categories. This includes impulse control disorders or behavioral addictions, without specific criteria.
In terms of inclusion status, DSM-5 positions IGD in Section III, treating it as a condition that requires further research for possible official recognition. This indicates readiness for the future official inclusion of the IGD in future editions. In turn, ICD-11 recognizes “gaming disorder” as an established condition that closely matches the criteria outlined in DSM-5.
In discussing scope and focus, it is worth noting that DSM-5 clearly focuses on Internet gaming and excludes other online activities. In contrast, in ICD-11, “gaming disorder” covers both online and offline gaming, providing a more encompassing aspect. On the other hand, ICD-10-CM broadly addresses addictive behaviors, including gambling disorders, but does not specifically define criteria for Internet gaming disorders.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Internet Gaming Disorder is a complex problem involving technology, behavior, and mental health. While DSM-5 recognizes it as a condition requiring further investigation, both ICD-10-CM and ICD-11 provide avenues for coding related behaviors, with ICD-11 explicitly recognizing “Gaming Disorder.” There are similarities in these classifications that indicate recognition of the potential impact of excessive gaming on people’s lives.
However, there are also differences in scope and inclusion. This highlights the current debate and research needs for understanding and addressing problem gaming behavior. This is an evolving field, and continued collaboration and research are necessary to refine diagnostic criteria and interventions for Internet Gaming Disorder.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Internet Gaming Disorder.
Carlisle, K. (2020). Utility of DSM-5 Criteria for Internet Gaming Disorder. Psychological Reports, 1-20.
King, L. D., Chamberlain, S. R., Carragher, N., Billieux, J., Stein, D., Mueller, K., Potenza, M. N., Rumpf, H. J., Saunders, J., Starcevic, V., Demetrovics, Z., Brand, M., Lee, H. K., Spada, M., Lindenberg, K., Wu, A. M. S., Lemenager, T., Pallesen, S., Achab, S… Delfabbro, P. H. (2020). Screening and assessment tools for gaming disorder: A comprehensive systematic review. Clinical Psychology Review, 77.