The Moderating Role of Video Game Play in the Relationship Between Stress and Externalising Behaviours in Adolescent Males

The focus of this research was to investigate whether video game play reframed into the context of cumulative stress could play a moderating role on externalising behavioural outcomes. A sample of 14-15 year old adolescent boys (N = 197) were administered self-report measures relating to video game use, cumulative stress and externalising behaviours. Results showed that video gaming, as measured by time spent playing or genre played had no relationship with externalising behaviours in general. This was true when considered within the context of stress also. Although video game use was not related to conduct disorder, a positive relationship with hyperactivity was found. This may signify that game play is attractive to adolescents who are hyperactive, and that hyperactivity could affect the propensity to play more. Implications of these findings for future research are discussed. The Moderating Role of Video Game Play in the Relationship Between Stress and Externalising Behaviours in Adolescent Males Michael Yates, Institute of Education, University of London, London, UK Jane Hurry, Institute of Education, University of London, London, UK