Relationship between level of computer game addiction and behavioural problems among children

The purpose of this research is to analyze the relationship between level of computer game addiction and behavioural problems, competence levels in school and non-school activities among children. Correlational survey model is used in the research. Participants of the research consist of 154 children (81 female, 73 male) receiving education in elementary 3rd and 4th class level with X̅= 9.4 (S=0,65) age average. "Computer Game Addiction Scale for Children" and "Parent Form for Behaviour Assessment Scale for 6-18 Years old Children and Young Persons" are used for collecting research data. Spearman Brown correlation analysis technique is used for data analysis. In the result of the research, a low positive correlation is found between computer game addiction level and external behavioural problems and aggression among children. No correlation was found between oppositional defiant disorder among external behavioural problems and the computer game addiction. No correlation was found between internal behavioural problems and sub dimensions anxiety/depression, social introversion and somatic remonstrances. However, a low level positive correlation was found between social problems, attention problems and thought problems which are out of external and internal disordesand the computer game addiction level. Additionally, a negative low relation was found between the computer game addiction level and children's school competence. However, it is decided that relations between competence areas such as attendance in sports and non-sports activities, socialness and general activity and the computer game addiction level are not meaningful. Findings obtained from the research are discussed with findings of other researches in the same area and recommendations are presented. Keywords: Computer Game Addiction, Children, Behavioural Problems, Internal Behavioural Problems, External Behavioural Problems