Emotional neglect, hikikomori behaviors and internet gaming disorder in adolescents: A three-wave longitudinal study

Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) has become a significant concern due to its potential impact on daily functioning, particularly among adolescents. Emotional neglect (EN) and hikikomori behaviors (HB) are two factors thought to influence IGD, yet their interplay remains underexplored. This study explores their longitudinal relationships guided by the Interaction of Person–Affect–Cognition–Execution (I-PACE) model. A total of 1865 adolescents from Italy (M = 15.34, SD = 1.08) participated in a three-wave longitudinal study. Surveys were administered at baseline (T1), six months (T2), and twelve months later (T3). Structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to analyze bidirectional relationships and mediation effects between the variables. The analysis revealed that EN consistently predicted HB and IGD, as well as that HB consistently predicted IGD. HB didn't predict EN, and IGD didn't predict either EN or HB. Furthermore, significant mediation effects were found from EN T1 to IGD T3 through EN T2, HQ T2, AND IGD T2, as well as from HB T1 to IGD T3 through HB T2 and IGD T2. No significant indirect effect was found from HB T2 to IGD T3 through EN T2. The findings indicate that adolescents experiencing EN are more prone to IGD, with HB exacerbating this effect. Effective strategies may include emotional support programs and therapies that promote social re-engagement. Integrating these approaches could improve treatment outcomes for IGD among adolescents.