Overview of systematic reviews and meta-analyses on problematic video game use and gaming disorder in adolescents and young adults

Summary: Background: Problematic video game use and disordered gaming are increasingly recognized adolescent health concerns. Methods: This overview summarizes assessment, epidemiology, risk factors, health outcomes, and treatment of problematic and disordered gaming among adolescents and young adults. PubMed, Web of Science, and PsycInfo were searched for reviews published from 9/1/2016 to 5/26/2026. At least two reviewers screened and extracted data. Risk-of-bias assessments were summarized. This review is registered with the International Platform of Registered Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Protocols (INPLASY #202670067). Findings: Of 98 unique records, 51 were included. Prevalence varied by region, sociodemographics, and diagnostic definitions, with gaming disorder or internet gaming disorder affecting 6–10% of adolescents and young adults worldwide. Earlier gaming initiation, maladaptive gaming patterns, poorer mental health, and controlling parenting were associated with increased risk. Problematic gaming was linked to adverse physical, sleep, neurobiological, and mental health outcomes. Cognitive behavioral therapy showed the strongest therapeutic evidence. Evidence certainty was low-to-moderate. Interpretation: The findings highlight the importance of early identification of problematic and disordered gaming among youth who begin gaming young, or experience mental health symptoms, social difficulties, or limited parental support. Future research should refine diagnostic criteria, evaluate treatments through randomized trials, and clarify developmental mechanisms. Funding: JMN was supported by the National Institutes of Health and Rise Together, a donor-advised fund sponsored and administered by the National Philanthropic Trust.