Video games are a favorite pastime for children and adults alike. They really took off in the ’80s and have come a long way in quality and versatility since. There are differing views on whether video games are good or bad for you. We’ve looked at the positives and negatives of video games and go over them below.
The Positives of Playing Video Games
In moderation, playing video games can be a very positive experience. Some of the benefits include:
- Sped-up response time
- Encouraged teamwork
- Cognitive enhancements, such as:
- Hand-eye coordination and reaction time
- Spatial visualization and attention
- Visual anticipation and search strategies
- Task switching
- Higher accuracy and task completion
- Social skills, such as:
- Cooperation
- Support
- Civic engagement
The Negative Effects of Playing Video Games
Gaming also has negatives, including:
- Stress injuries, including back, neck, hand, wrist, and shoulder pain.
- Addiction: Gaming can produce high levels of dopamine, causing adverse effects such as:
- Gaming preoccupation
- Withdrawal
- Loss of interest in other activities
- Loss of relationship, educational, or career opportunities
- Aggression
- Gambling: There has been an increase in convergence between gaming and gambling, especially as gambling has become a part of e-sports
- Decreased mental health: Although gaming can have positive social effects, it can also cause:
- Maladaptive coping strategies
- Negative affectivity
- Low self-esteem
- A preference for solitude
- Poor school performance
- Poor sleep
- Poor emotional regulation
- Decline in focus and concentration
- Procrastination: A 2019 study showed that people who play video games to escape reality have more problems with procrastination than those who play for entertainment.
Gamer to Gamer
Ultimately, like anything, gaming has positive and negative effects, varying from person to person. As with any balancing act, playing in moderation can unlock the positive impact of gaming. On the other hand, those who play in excess are most likely to suffer from its harmful effects and find themselves needing help to overcome their addiction and mental health decline.
If you or someone you know is struggling with gaming or any other addiction, reach out to SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 800-662-HELP (4357) or visit Find Treatment.