Frontal alpha asymmetry in adolescent video game players: Associations with executive functions, in-game performance, and flow state

Journal of Modern Foreign Psychology. 2025. Vol. 14. No. 3. P. 44–61.

Machnev E. G., Tcepelevich M. M., Tkachenko I. O., D. Momotenko

This exploratory study aims to investigate the relationship between resting-state frontal alpha asymmetry (FAA) and executive functions in adolescent video game players, while also examining potential associations between post-game FAA, in-game performance, and self-reported flow state. A total of 17 Dota 2™ players and 21 CS:GO™ players underwent EEG recordings before and immediately after a training match. FAA was calculated as the difference between the alpha power at frontal electrodes (F3 and F4). Executive functions were assessed via the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function-2. Post-game data included the team game outcome (win or loss) and measures of flow state. The results revealed a significant positive association between relative left-sided frontal activity and behavioral regulation, and a tentative positive association between relative right-sided frontal activity and emotional regulation. Given the role of left-sided activity in emotional regulation, it may be assumed that regulatory control is selectively involved in suppressing impulsivity. The relationship between FAA and executive functions was inconsistent across recording conditions, highlighting a need for further methodological consideration of this issue. FAA was not associated with team performance or flow state. However, a positive trend emerged between FAA and autotelic experience. These findings challenge the existing literature linking success in sports, approach motivation, and positive emotions to left-frontal activity, highlighting the need for further investigation.

Keywords: EEG, video games, Dota 2, executive functions, CS:GO, frontal alpha asymmetry, flow state