Association between Internet gaming disorder and adult attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder and their correlates: Impulsivity and hostility

Internet gaming disorder (IGD) and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are associated with impulsivity and hostility. This study evaluated the associations among ADHD, impulsivity, hostility, and IGD. We recruited 87 individuals with IGD and 87 controls without a history of IGD. All participants underwent a diagnostic interview based on the DSM-5 IGD criteria and DSM-IV-TR ADHD criteria and completed a questionnaire regarding impulsivity and hostility. The information from the diagnostic interviews was assessed using the clinical global impression scale. The results suggested that IGD is associated with ADHD among young adults and that young adults with both IGD and ADHD have higher impulsivity and hostility. Furthermore, impulsivity and hostility mediate the association between ADHD and IGD. Thus, ADHD is a common comorbidity of IGD among young adults, and impulsivity and hostility are major factors involved in comorbid ADHD and IGD. Young adults with ADHD should be thoroughly assessed, particularly for their impulsivity and hostility, and interventions for IGD should be developed.