Weak symptom overlap between cannabis use and internet gaming

Previous research has suggested that substance use disorders and behavioural addictions tend to co-occur and have similar diagnostic criteria. This has prompted investigation into new diagnostic categories and conceptualizations of addiction. Network theory may provide a novel and useful framework for conceptualizing such psychological disorders. Given the ongoing debate surrounding internet gaming disorder, named in the DSM-5 as a condition for further study, alongside recent trends in the legalization of recreational cannabis, this investigation aimed to explore the interconnectedness of both via network analysis among a sample of young adult video game players. Across multiple network parameterizations, problematic cannabis and video game use were found to be - at most - weakly associated with one another. Further, problematic game play was found to be most associated with escape and competition motivations. These findings suggest that before a comprehensive understanding of a new diagnostic category can be established, more research should be conducted to determine if a comorbidity between cannabis use disorder and problematic internet gaming exists.