Neurofeedback for Internet Gaming Addiction

Real-time Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Neurofeedback Treatment for Young Adults With Internet Gaming Addiction

The primary aim of this study is to evaluate the therapeutic potential of real-time functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) neurofeedback in alleviating internet gaming disorder (IGD) symptoms by training individuals with such symptoms to down-regulate the activity in their reward-processing-related midbrain regions.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Meet at least five of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders fifth edition (DSM-5) criteria for IGD and score 38 or above on the Internet Addiction Test (IAT)
• First language is Chinese (Mandarin)
• Right-handed
• Have played the mobile game "King of Glory" for more than 3 years
• Ability to give informed consent
• Normal or corrected-to-normal vision

Exclusion Criteria:

• Any primary diagnosis of a current psychological or neurological disorder
• Any history of psychological or neurological disorder
• Any MRI contraindication
• Currently on a psychotropic medication
• Any history of substance dependence
• Any history of brain injury or surgery