Assessment of Attentional Bias in Internet Gaming Disorder Using the Addiction Stroop Task and Event-Related Potentials

Abstract

Background: Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) is defined by a loss of control over gaming habits, prioritizing gaming above daily responsibilities, and persistent engagement despite detrimental outcomes. As a rising public health challenge, IGD significantly disrupts individuals’ lives. Investigating attentional biases in IGD is vital for designing targeted interventions. Methods: Attentional bias was measured in individuals with IGD using the Addiction Stroop Task. The participants were classified into three cohorts: IGD, Recreational Game Users, and non-gaming controls. Electroencephalography/event-related potential (EEG/ERP) data were collected and analyzed from electrodes Pz, Cz, and CPz. Findings: Compared to the RGU and control groups, the IGD group displayed significantly greater P300 amplitudes and prolonged response latencies to both gaming-related and neutral stimuli. Furthermore, the IGD group reported elevated impulsivity, anxiety, and depression levels relative to the other groups. Conclusion: Contrary to conventional attentional bias models in addiction—which emphasize preferential attention to addiction-related cues—individuals with IGD exhibited intensified neural reactivity to all stimuli. This suggests excessive cognitive resource mobilization, potentially indicative of hyperarousal or dysregulated neurobiological processes.