Depressive symptoms associations with online and in person networks in an online gaming community: a pilot study

Purpose Increases in video game use have led to mental health concerns, citing greater risk for depressive symptoms (DS) and reduced "in-real-life" (IRL) social involvement. However, recent studies have uncovered potential social benefits for online gaming. Many games provide avenues to extend real life relationships and make new online friendships. The purpose of this pilot study is to use social network analysis to determine associations between connections and DS in a gaming community. Design/methodology/approach As a pilot study, members of an online gaming site were asked to report demographic characteristics, DS, IRL social support, online social support and IRL people and members of the online community with whom they spoke to about important life matters. Multi-level modeling was used to parse variance described by demographic characteristics, IRL measures and online measures. Linear network autocorrelation modeling (LNAM) was used to determine relationships between network connections and DS. Findings Members (n = 37; mu = 24.76 years old, SD = 6.55; 100% male; 89.2% white) on average felt DS' "not at all" to "several days" over the past two weeks. Multi-level modeling including online network measures explained 50% of variance (R-2 = 0.50, F (9,27) = 2.98, p = 0.01); online connections were associated with DS (ss = 0.46). LNAM indicated DS were associated with IRL support (ss = -2.66), IRL connections (ss = 1.81), online support (ss = 2.40) and network effects (ss = 0.06), which indicates that a gamer's DS were similar to those of their online connections. Originality/value Members with more DS may be seeking help via online channels. This may be important for future research to consider alternative forms of help-seeking behavior.