Gaming is a popular pastime in the USA. Gaming also seems to be universal in the reach for a large portion of the population. As gaming becomes even more popular, many debates have been made over the effects it has. Over the years, many theories on the act of gaming have emerged. There appears to be a multitude of information both for and against gaming. Here are some pros and cons in order to provide a little more information on the activity.
Video games can help to improve an array of skills like math and reading. Some video games have forms of currency. This makes kids process what they need and how much money they can spend. This strengthens the usage of mathematical skills. Video games also provide a way to strengthen reading skills. This is due to many games having subtitles. Some games also rely on the kids reading the instructions and following them. This really makes them pay close attention to reading and how to perform the instructions.
Video games can be addicting for multiple age groups. Children are especially susceptible to the addictive effects of video games. Addiction is a very strong word, however, games often formulate habits for people if you have to check a game every so often or log on at a certain time. The habits can lead to bigger issues like neglecting responsibilities. One might just attempt to be vigilant on how much time they or their children are spending on video games.
Gaming also might be able to improve hand-eye coordination. In an article by How Stuff Works Tech, they go over a 2014 study done by the University of Toronto. The University put together one group that regularly played video games and the other non-gamers.“One experiment had them use a computer mouse to keep an object at the center of a complicated (and repeating) moving target.” In the beginning, no one group did better than the other. However, over time, the gamer group was more adaptable than the non-gamer group. So in theory, gamers had a slight advantage over non-gamers.
The one really great thing about video games is that it introduces you to technology. All people of all ages can learn how to better use and understand technology. Instead of receiving a lecture, playing a game is a much more entertaining way to learn. Due to the game being enjoyable, it will not feel as much like a chore. As you get more comfortable in the game, you will know how to use the technology better. In the future, you will then know how to operate the technology.
Technology is great when used for the right purposes. Violent video games, on the other hand, might hinder more than help. When exposed to violent video games people might eventually develop a desensitization to violence. According to a study conducted by the University of Michigan, “Along with other recent research, the findings suggest that chronic exposure to violent video games has lasting harmful effects on brain function and behavior.” Feel free to click the link in order to review the whole study.
So all in all, video games have many positives and negatives attached to it. Video games, like everything else, should be enjoyed in moderation. Always make sure to review the health regulations and rating systems. This ensures that the content is tailored for the correct age audience. Video games simply need to be monitored and regulated to what you determine fits for you or your children. Remember to stay safe and to take a break every so often. Video games can be fun and do not have to rule over peoples’ lives. It is all simply a choice that is determined by your own good judgement.
