'I Am Lost in That Reality, and I'm Just Playing the Game': A Qualitative Study Exploring Gaming Behaviour and Its Effect on Young Adults in India

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Bibliographic Details
Title: 'I Am Lost in That Reality, and I'm Just Playing the Game': A Qualitative Study Exploring Gaming Behaviour and Its Effect on Young Adults in India
Language: English
Authors: Anuradha Sathiyaseelan (ORCID 0000-0001-6771-9413), Sathiyaseelan Balasundaram (ORCID 0000-0001-9593-871X), Bishal Patangia (ORCID 0000-0002-7693-3275), Ashwini M.
Source: British Journal of Guidance & Counselling. 2026 54(2):227-241.
Availability: Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 530 Walnut Street Suite 850, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Tel: 215-625-8900; Fax: 215-207-0050; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 15
Publication Date: 2026
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Descriptors: Foreign Countries, Young Adults, Video Games, Behavior, Physical Health, Mental Health, Productivity, Interaction, Social Life, Leisure Time, Recreational Activities, Habit Formation
Geographic Terms: India
DOI: 10.1080/03069885.2024.2429397
ISSN: 0306-9885
1469-3534
Abstract: The current study aims to explore gaming behaviour among young adults in India and its effects on their physical and emotional health, productivity, interactions, and social life. Data were collected from 12 avid gamers through in-depth semi-structured interviews. A thematic analysis was conducted to identify the global theme and organise themes from the data. The global theme was the "exploration of contemporary gaming behaviour". The habit theme included the origin of the game, practice, and change over time, while the effects' theme focused on the physical and emotional health, productivity, interactions, and social life of young adults who engaged in gaming. The findings suggest that gaming behaviour has become an established habit among young adults in India, significantly affecting various aspects of their lives. The study highlights the need for increased awareness of the potential negative consequences of excessive gaming and emphasises the importance of moderation in gaming.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2026
Accession Number: EJ1508461
Database: ERIC
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Description
Abstract:The current study aims to explore gaming behaviour among young adults in India and its effects on their physical and emotional health, productivity, interactions, and social life. Data were collected from 12 avid gamers through in-depth semi-structured interviews. A thematic analysis was conducted to identify the global theme and organise themes from the data. The global theme was the "exploration of contemporary gaming behaviour". The habit theme included the origin of the game, practice, and change over time, while the effects' theme focused on the physical and emotional health, productivity, interactions, and social life of young adults who engaged in gaming. The findings suggest that gaming behaviour has become an established habit among young adults in India, significantly affecting various aspects of their lives. The study highlights the need for increased awareness of the potential negative consequences of excessive gaming and emphasises the importance of moderation in gaming.
ISSN:0306-9885
1469-3534
DOI:10.1080/03069885.2024.2429397