There are a lot of discussions about whether playing video games is good for the brain or not. According to experts and researchers, video games have positive and negative effects on the brain. It is important for people to be aware of the pros and cons as it greatly impacts their brain fitness.
There are a lot of factors to consider to determine whether a video game is good or bad for the brain.
Pros of video games
Improves cognitive performance among children
Smartphones and downloadable apps make it very easy to allow little kids to play video games. Of course, it is important to only let them play kid-friendly games. There are thousands or even millions of game applications these days that are educational and engaging for little kids.
According to a 2022 report by the National Institutes of Health, playing video games can improve or enhance cognitive skills and performance among kids. There are other studies that support this claim. In a 2022 article by the Institute for Educational Advancement, it was reported that playing a video game can improve kids’ creativity and problem-solving skills.
Benefits mental health
There are a lot of mental health benefits that can come from playing video games. For some, it gives them a strong sense of fulfillment, especially with how games’ difficulties are designed these days. The world of video gaming also now has its virtual social platform wherein gamers can connect with each other and establish relationships. Video gaming can also help people recover from traumatic experiences.
Increases intelligence
There are a lot of games these days that are designed and developed to increase intelligence among gamers no matter their age. The majority of game titles these days have problem-solving and critical thinking that forces gamers to rely not only on their hand-eye coordination skills but also on their thinking.
Cons of video games
Diminishes health
Too much video gaming can result in all sorts of health issues including obesity and heart problems. There are people who play these games for long hours in a day. They stay isolated in their homes or rooms and never do any outside activities. Inactivity when playing can result to the body being more vulnerable to health conditions. It is also very easy to gain a lot of weight when all you do is sit, play, eat, and repeat.
Leads to poor quality of sleep
Despite the need to sleep, many video gamers choose not to and would play all night instead. According to experts and studies, playing video games is linked to difficulty falling asleep and even insomnia. There are other factors to consider.
Toxic online environment
Social networking through video games is a double-edged sword. It is true that through messaging platforms and communications boards, video gamers can meet different people. However, they are also exposed to the bad side of video gaming, the toxic side wherein people are relentless when spewing profanity, obscenity, and even hate. Is it important for gamers to be mindful of who they interact with or communicate online? Parents and guardians must thoroughly monitor their kids when they engage with people online.
When playing video games, it is important for one to be responsible and mindful of the disadvantages.
