Escaping through virtual gaming—what is the association with emotional, social, and mental health? A systematic review

Abstract

BackgroundThe realm of virtual games, video games, and e-sports has witnessed remarkable and substantial growth, captivating a diverse and global audience. However, some studies indicate that this surge is often linked to a desire to escape from real life, a phenomenon known as escapism. Much like substance abuse, escapism has been identified as a significant motivator, leading to adverse outcomes, including addiction. Therefore, it is crucial to comprehend the existing research on the connection between escapism and engagement in virtual gaming. This understanding can shed light on the reasons behind such practices and their potential impact on mental and public health.PurposeThe objective of this systematic review is investigate the findings pertaining to association between escapism and the practice of virtual games, such as video-games and e-sport.MethodsPUBMED and SCOPUS database were systematically searched. Six independent researchers screened articles for relevance. We extracted data regarding escapism-related measures, emotional/mental health-related measures and demographic information relevant to the review purpose.ResultsThe search yielded 357 articles, 36 were included. Results showed that: (i) Escapist motivation (EM) is one of the main motives for playing virtual games; (ii) EM is related to negative clinical traits; (iii) EM predicts negative psychological/emotional/mental health outcomes; (iv) EM is associated with impaired/negative perception of the real-world life; (v) EM predicts non-adaptive real social life; and (vi) EM is associated with dysfunctional gaming practices in some cases. However, EM can have beneficial effects, fostering confidence, determination, a sense of belonging in virtual communities, and representation through avatars. Furthermore, the reviewed findings suggest that EM was positively linked to mitigating loneliness in anxious individuals and promoting social activities that preserved mental health among typical individuals during the pandemic.ConclusionOur review reinforces the evidence linking EM in the context of virtual games to poor mental health and non-adaptive social behavior. The ensuing discussion explores the intricate connection between escapism and mental health, alongside examining the broad implications of virtual gaming practices on underlying motivations for escapism in the realms of social cognition, health promotion, and public health.

An Investigation of Factors Influencing Attitudes Towards Online and Offline Games with the Moderator Effects of Gender in Iran

“…Additionally, all five dimensions of U&G theory influence attitudes towards video games (Chang & Lee, 2022; Xu et al, 2023). For example, users can escape from their daily life issues by engaging in games (Fraser et al, 2023; Marques et al, 2023; Nguyen, 2015; Oing & Prescott, 2018; Salman et al, 2022; Stellhorn, 2022; Vugts et al, 2018). The characteristics of certain types of games allow players to escape from life pressures, deal with negative situations, and feel power and autonomy (Şalvarlı & Griffiths, 2021).…”

Interplay between Children’s Electronic Media Use and Prosocial Behavior: The Chain Mediating Role of Parent–Child Closeness and Emotion Regulation

“…Such interpersonal experiences, often cultivated through real-life experiences and direct social engagement, may not be adequately stimulated in digitally mediated environments. Furthermore, the immersive qualities of electronic media can engender escapism, potentially diminishing children’s willingness to engage with real-world challenges and respond with prosocial behaviors [ 79 ].…”

Influence of Mobile Online Battle Arena (MOBA) Addiction on Psychological Discomfort

“…It is characterized as an irresistible tendency to immerse oneself in video games which could cause damage to various life aspects (Ivanova, 2023). 'Escapism' can be defined as the pursuit of escaping from real life into another fictional world (Marques, Uchida, Aguiar et. al., 2023).…”