Gaming Dependence in the Boat of Sadistic Tendency and Psychological Distress: The Pulling and Driving Factors of Aggression and Satisfaction

Abstract

The study examines gaming addiction, violence, university student satisfaction, mediators, and demographic disparities. The Game Addiction Scale, Buss Perry Brief Aggression Questionnaire, Kessler Psychological Distress Scale, Sadistic Tendencies Assessment, and Satisfaction with Life Scale were administered to a diverse group. Gaming addiction increases aggression and decreases life pleasure. The study also found that sadistic tendencies and psychological anguish mitigate these connections. Gaming addiction increases aggression, mediated by sadism and psychological distress. Gaming addiction negatively predicts life satisfaction, and sadistic inclinations, psychological discomfort, violence, and satisfaction are strongly correlated. University student characteristics were gender- and region-neutral. This study reveals the complex relationship between gaming, psychology, and university well-being. Practical effects may influence psychological variables in gaming solutions. The lack of gender and geographical inequities challenges assumptions, allowing a more comprehensive approach to gaming activity in diverse societies.