LEVELS OF DISTRESS ASSOCIATED WITH INTERNET GAMING DISORDER AMONG ADOLESCENTS IN SELECTED PRIVATE CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITIES IN NAIROBI COUNTY, KENYA
Abstract
Purpose: The study sought to establish the levels of psychological distress associated with Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) among adolescents in selected private Christian universities in Nairobi County, Kenya.
Methodology: The study adopted a quasi-experimental research design and involved 96 students, divided equally into experimental and control groups, drawn from four private Christian universities. Psychological distress was measured using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10). Data analysis was conducted using Chi-square tests, independent t-tests, and ANOVA to assess group differences at baseline, midline, and endline stages.
Results: The findings revealed that psychological distress among adolescents was moderately elevated across both groups at baseline. However, significant reductions in distress were observed in the experimental group at midline and endline following intervention through Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET). ANOVA results confirmed statistically significant differences (p < 0.001) between the groups post-intervention, validating the effectiveness of MET in alleviating psychological distress among adolescents with IGD.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: The study contributes to the growing body of mental health research by confirming the effectiveness of MET in reducing distress linked to IGD. Universities are advised to integrate peer-led awareness programs and structured support systems that encourage responsible gaming and early intervention to protect student well-being.
Keywords: Levels of Distress, Internet Gaming Disorder, Adolescents, Private Christian Universities
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