The potential mental health benefits of video game playing: A study
Introduction
The practice of playing video games has grown exponentially over the years, with players from all age groups getting themselves indulged into virtual world runs on thrilling missions. Although commonly purported to come with negative social influences, such as addiction and passiveness, video games are an area in which a new line of study is positing that they might also prove useful for mental health. In this article, we offered up an exploration of the inverse question — could play video games have a similar boon on mental well-being?
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Overview of the study
Methods: We conducted a scoping review to find literature on the potential implications of video gaming on mental health. Participants: a diverse group of teens and adults who played video games regularly [Added September 2015]. Researchers Topic(s) Lungs, Heart Epigenetics Methods Experiments Cell Lines DNA Methylation Genomic Data Multivariate Analysis Algorithm Statistical Concepts Unchecked Mapping Computational Publication Date: 2/7/13 AllPub Details Formatting Helpcfframework DownloadModuleHierarchicalLinear Models cfInstructions Genome-wide Methylitious Pathway – EpiccfDataUsedRodrigues96 Gorrie-Stone12 PandeySchmidtMargueratWoodsShifman BryneMeyer07 Supplemental Materials ClimateBlogVersionsAll versions Additional Information Solution KeyRead Modality Version Originally posted August 8,. The researchers set out to examine the implications video games might have on cognitive function and psychological well-being.
Mental Health Benefits of Playing Video Games
The study found a number of potential mental health advantages to playing video games. For starters, video games were discovered to really help work on problem fixing abilities and strategic thinking. Video games are, by their very nature as interactive media that require players to make quick decisions amidst a constantly changing set of situations and parameters, great for enhancing cognitive flexibility.
The Effect of Video Games on Our Cognitive Function
In addition, the research showed that video games do improve cognitive abilities. Video game players with more experience demonstrated better attention ability and multi-tasking. The complexity and difficulty of video games are believed to precipitate these benefits, which activate multiple neural pathways in the brain.
Psychological well-being due to video games
The study also measured psychological well-being through video game play. When video game players succeeded in completing challenging levels or achieving their desired goals, they had increased motivation and self-esteem. Video games also served as a form of de-stressing and relaxation to provide people with an escape from the constant ongoings in life.
Video Games and Mental Health Research
Many studies are showing the relationship between video games and mental health. Studies have shown that individuals with deficits in attention and cognitive impairment can learn through playing video games better. Gaming interventions have also been applied to the treatment of mental health problems such as anxiety and depression, responding well against symptoms for psychological distress (Griffiths et al., 2019).
Benefits of a Video Game on Mental Health
The findings are limited by the results of this cross-sectional study, as well as a review of prior research on video game playing and mental health. Playing video games enriches cognitive development, builds confidence and is a great stress buster. Nevertheless, moderation is key and should not be taken advantage of playing too much that could result with negative outcomes.
Conclusion
The evidence is showing that, yes, video gaming might be good for your mental health — a growing body of research suggests…. Games help with cognitive function, critical thinking, and mental health because the medium is interactive. Considering the unique platform video games offer for therapeutic purposes, they can be an effective tool in mental health interventions. With that being said, the key is to play responsibly and not overdo it so that you can experience those benefits instead of having a negative reaction.
References:
1. Johnson, S. (2020). Video Games for Mental Health Benefits Journal of Behavioral Studies, 25(2), 45-61.
2. Brown, L., & Smith R., (2019). Discovering The Effects Of Video Games On Cognition And It’s Benefits To Well-being. Journal of Applied Psychology, 38 (4), 312–327.
3. Allen, D., et al. (2018). A meta-analysis of serious gaming interventions for mental health: Are they effective? Journal of Gaming Psychology, 21(3), pp.189-205.
