Explaining Adolescents’ Game Use and Game Engagement Levels: The Role of BIS and BAS

• In Event: Revisiting the Phenomenon of Game Addiction

Abstract

According to the reinforcement sensitivity theory, variations in the functioning the behavioral approach (BAS) and inhibition (BIS) system, result in individual differences in personality. Several studies have looked at associations between personality and media use, but media research integrating BAS and BIS is scarce. The current cross-sectional survey study (n=1016) investigated associations between BAS and BIS and game use and game engagement in adolescents. BAS was positively associated with playing violent and non-violent games. BIS was negatively associated with violent game use, while it was positively associated with non-violent games. Also, BAS was positively associated with game engagement. No association was found between BIS and game engagement. Game engagement mediated the relationship between BAS and playing violent and non-violent games. The present study argues that integrating the reinforcement sensitivity theory in media research contributes to the understanding of the link between personality and game engagement and game use.

Authors

• Jolien Vangeel, U of Leuven

• Kathleen Beullens, U of Leuven - School for Mass Communication Research

• Nathalie De Cock, Ghent U

• Wendy Van Lippevelde, Ghent U

• Lien Goossens, Ghent U

• Leentje Vervoort, Ghent U