“Dangerous Games” and Adolescents’ Psychological Functioning: A Multimethod Assessment

Abstract: “Dangerous games” are a complex social phenomenon which demands in-depth investigation. This study aimed to compare adolescent groups with and without a history of practicing “aggression games” and/or “non-oxygenation games” regarding impulsivity, depressive symptoms, the big five personality traits and emotional dynamics. Thus, a total of 239 adolescents aged 12 to 17 years initially and asynchronously answered five self-report measures. Then, 70 participants from the previous stage answered the Pfister Online in remote synchronous mode at a second moment. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis were used. Different patterns were found between groups in relation to neuroticism, conscientiousness, impulsive and depressive symptom traits. Regarding emotional dynamics, a tendency to behave in an aggressive way and to be attracted to intense stimuli was observed among “aggression game” participants. Furthermore, “non-oxygenation game” participants showed greater insecurity and search for emotional balance.