Comparing the Approaches and Validity of ICD-11 Criteria for Gaming Disorder and DSM-5 Criteria for Internet Gaming Disorder

Purpose of Review This review explores the differences in approach and diagnostic validity between the International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision criteria for gaming disorder (ICD-11-GD), and the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition criteria for internet gaming disorder (DSM-5-IGD). Recent Findings A few studies have demonstrated diagnostic validity and consistency between the DSM-5-IGD and ICD-11-GD criteria. The ICD-11-GD involves a higher threshold for GD diagnosis than the DSM-5-IGD. On the other hand, future studies should evaluate whether the ICD-11-GD criteria could differentiate GD from highly engaged gamers. Hazardous gaming criteria may help identify gamers with risky gaming behavior and compensate for the possible type II errors associated with the ICD-11-GD criteria. Both DSM-5-IGD and ICD-11-GD criteria exhibit adequate diagnostic validity and consistency in general. The criteria for hazardous gaming have clinical utility for implementing the preventive intervention for GD. Additional studies based on the ICD-11-GD criteria, including additional clinical features and boundaries with other disorders, should be conducted to evaluate their validity and utility in determining the GD diagnosis, course, prognosis, and treatment.