I must say, when I first saw an article on how video games effect us, I was hoping to share it with my 2 teenagers and pride myself on telling them how bad video games are and how they need to limit their gaming. Boy, was I surprised!
First of all, it’s amazing that 72% of U.S. households play video or computer games, with most players between the ages of 18-49. The impressive part of this article was that the studies were held independently of the companies that sell video and computer games. Improvement in creativity, decision making, focus and perception were among a few of the benefits of gaming. And the more violent action games had the strongest beneficial effects on the brain.
Gaming does have its downside. Some people can have a problem with compulsive gaming. Other studies have found an association with weight gain, depression and problems with emotional control.
The fact is…video gaming changes brain physiology. It’s not all bad if it’s played in moderation.