Identifying the Emotional, Cognitive, and Physical Components of Group Online Games in the Lives of Adolescents: A Thematic Analysis

Subject Areas : Thematic Analysis

Saeed Banaie Zadeh ¹ , Askar Atashafrouz ² , Gholamhossein Maktabi ³ , Morteza Omidian ⁴

1 - Department of Educational Psychology, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
2 - Department of Psychology, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
3 - Department of Psychology, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
4 - Department of Psychology, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran

Received: 2025-08-31 Accepted : 2025-09-16 Published : 2026-02-04

Keywords: Emotion, cognition, physical health, online computer games,

Abstract :

The present study was conducted with the aim of identifying and investigating the emotional, cognitive, and physical components of group online computer games in the lives of adolescents. Online computer games, with their increasing popularity among adolescents, while taking up a significant portion of their time, have their own specific effects on various functions of their lives. The method of this study was qualitative and based on the step-by-step thematic analysis method of Braun and Clark (2006). Sampling was non-probability and purposeful, and data collection was carried out through interviews. For this purpose, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 adolescents (who met the inclusion criteria for the study, which included consent to participate in the interview, experience playing group online computer games for more than 2 hours per day, and a history of more than 2 years in these games). Purposeful sampling was used until theoretical saturation was reached. Data analysis resulted in 46 primary codes, 5 basic themes, 3 organizational themes, and an overarching theme titled “Emotional, Cognitive, and Physical Components of Online Group Computer Games.” The results showed that there are various components surrounding online group computer games that can have both positive and negative effects on the emotional and cognitive components, and also negatively affect the physical health of adolescents, who make up the majority of players of these games. Identifying and examining these components can be of significant help in designing and modifying cultural and educational programs, as well as establishing relationships with adolescents.

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