Free Fire Addiction, Negative Emotions and Aggression: A Cross Sectional Study of Young Adults

Abstract

In today's digital age, millions of students around the world are deeply engaged in online games, with Free Fire emerging as a particularly popular choice due to its transition from physical to online play. However, research suggests that excessive gaming, including Free Fire, may be linked to increased aggression, though the underlying factors remain unclear. This study investigates how addiction to Free Fire influences aggression through negative emotions among 222 students, aged 18-30, who have the game installed on their phones. The research utilizes a correlational design and purposive sampling method. To assess key variables, the study uses gaming addiction scale for adolescents, a revised version of the Profile of Mood States to measure negative emotions, and the Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire. The results show a significant positive correlation between Free Fire addiction, negative emotions, and aggression. Mediation analysis reveals that Free Fire addiction significantly impacts both negative emotions and aggression, with negative emotions partially mediating the relationship between addiction and aggression. Based on these findings, the study suggests strategies to mitigate the mental health effects of gaming addiction, such as reintegrating structured routines, seeking social support, increasing parental involvement, and managing screen time.