Masaryk University study finds gender differences in gaming impact on adolescent loneliness

A study led by David Lacko from Masaryk University suggests that modern video games with social features—such as voice chat, text communication, and clan formation—affect adolescents differently based on gender.

Research involving over 3,000 adolescents indicates that social gaming is often linked to a decrease in loneliness and depressive moods among boys. However, the study found a less favorable pattern for girls, where social gaming was associated with increased depressive moods and higher levels of loneliness.

Lacko notes a dual pattern: while adolescents who play social games generally tend to be lonelier, an individual increase in social gaming can lead to a subsequent drop in loneliness. He advises parents to view social gaming as an opportunity for meaningful engagement rather than an automatic problem, emphasizing the importance of supporting balanced habits to mitigate risks like toxicity or social withdrawal.