Social Disconnection and Online Immersion: A Correlational Study of Internet Gaming Disorder and Loneliness among Adolescents in Enugu Metropolis

Abstract

In an era where artificial intelligence-driven algorithms are designed to maximise
user engagement, the boundary between digital recreation and problematic use
has become increasingly blurred. As online games adapt to users’ emotions and
behaviours, many adolescents are forming social connections in virtual
environments rather than through face-to-face interactions. This study examined
the relationship between loneliness and Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) among
secondary school adolescents in Enugu Metropolis. Guided by four objectives, the
study adopted a descriptive correlational survey design. Using Taro Yamane’s
formula, a sample of 404 respondents was drawn from a population of 16,500
through a multistage sampling procedure. Data were collected using a structured,
self-administered questionnaire comprising the UCLA Loneliness Scale (Version
3), the Internet Gaming Disorder Scale–Short Form (IGDS9-SF), and items
assessing socio-demographic characteristics and coping strategies. Data were
analysed using frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviations, Chi-square
and Pearson tests. Results showed that 68.1% of respondents experienced
moderate to high loneliness, while 56.9% exhibited symptoms consistent with
IGD. Pearson correlation revealed a strong, statistically significant positive
relationship between loneliness and IGD severity (r = 0.62, p = .020). Categorically,
adolescents with high loneliness were nearly five times more likely to report
moderate to severe IGD (46.4%) than those with low loneliness (9.6%) (p = 0.001).
Although many adolescents recognised the value of social support and alternative
activities, structured coping strategies were seldom used. The study concludes
that loneliness is a significant risk factor for IGD and recommends collaborative
efforts by schools and parents to regulate gaming time and promote offline
activities.