Effectiveness of non-invasive interventions for internet gaming disorder: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND Internet gaming disorder (IGD) is a growing concern among adolescents and adults, necessitating effective treatment strategies beyond pharmacological interventions. AIM To evaluated the effectiveness of non-invasive interventions for treating IGD among adolescents and adults. METHODS A total of 11 randomized controlled trials published between 2020 and 2025 were included in this meta-analysis, encompassing 1208 participants from diverse geographic and cultural contexts. The interventions examined included cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), internet-based CBT, neurofeedback, virtual reality therapy, abstinence-based programs, and school-based prevention. The primary outcomes assessed were reductions in gaming time and IGD severity. Secondary outcomes included improvements in mood, anxiety, and psychosocial functioning (e.g. , stronger peer relationships, better academic or work performance, and healthier daily-life role fulfillment). RESULTS The pooled standardized mean difference for IGD symptom reduction significantly favored non-invasive interventions (Hedges’ g = 0.56, 95%CI: 0.38-0.74, P < 0.001), with moderate heterogeneity observed (I 2 = 47%). Subgroup analyses indicated that CBT-based programs, both in-person and online, yielded the strongest effects, particularly when caregiver involvement or self-monitoring was incorporated. Funnel plot asymmetry was minimal, suggesting a low risk of publication bias. CONCLUSION These findings support the efficacy of scalable, low-risk non-invasive interventions as first-line treatment options for IGD, particularly in youth populations. Future studies should prioritize investigating long-term outcomes, comparing the effectiveness of different non-invasive modalities, and developing culturally adaptive delivery methods.