A descriptive pilot survey of behavioural addictions in an adolescent secondary school population in Ireland

Abstract Objectives: The aim of the present study was to evaluate levels possible internet addiction, gaming gambling addiction and associated mental health difficulties in a secondary school population Ireland. Methods: An online survey containing questions related administered adolescents Participants were self-selecting answered on characteristics each topic screening questionnaires for behaviour, as well their respective effects health. Results: A total 234 children participated (156 males; aged 12–18 years; average age 14.2 S.D. 1.60). Internet assessed using Chen Addiction Scale between 11.5% 22.6% by Gaming Disorder Scale–Short Form 0.5% 1.6%. Weak positive correlations found time spent with respectively. There weak higher scores, increased depression anxiety scores. Using South Oaks Gambling Screen–Revised Adolescents, two participants classed ‘at-risk’ one participant problem gambler. Conclusions: examined behavioural addictions sample schoolchildren at schools low number identified being risk or gamblers.