Parenting is experiencing a new split - the parents who abolish and those who allow video games. If you believe that video games are just a waste of time, read on - this article may be very helpful for you.
And for the “older” video gamers out there, we’re here to tell you that they are not just for kids any more. As a matter of fact, 70% of gamers are 33 years old. So if you’re an adult guilty of partaking in this kind of entertainment, you don’t have to hide your love for these virtual realities any longer - you’re in good company. This month, Queen of PAWNS will be focusing our topics on video games; their place in our culture, the history of home gaming consoles, comparing consoles and discussing what’s hot in the world of gaming.
Some people have strong opinions around the suggestion that video games make you smarter and even healthier. We’ve done a good amount of reading on this subject, and we have come across a few very compelling scientists who back up that statement.
Laboratory research has shown that certain types of games increase fluid intelligence (the ability to problem solve in unfamiliar situations - which is necessary for innovation) and when played repeatedly over time, even increase gray matter...as in makes your brain bigger. Perhaps a bigger brain doesn't necessarily make one smarter, but we’re guessing that it would. Gaming & video games, especially of the fast paced, high action ilk, enhance attentional control and reflexes. As for healthier - again, laboratory testing has proven that certain video games (when played in moderation) help combat depression and assist in pain management. They also increase our ability to see more varying shades of gray. That's kinda important when it comes to driving. Games and video gaming of all kinds, when played with other players enhances compatibility and cooperation skills and if you're playing something like Nintendo’s Wii, well that's more activity than reading a book. One researcher we came across made this analogy: equally, are the effects of (video) games on the brain as wine is to health. Too much of either creates complications but just the right amount of video games or wine has scientifically proven to have benefit.
Just to throw in a little controversy: yes, even the violent games make us smarter. However, they can also desensitize us from the atrocities of violent acts. There are plenty of other game options out there that provide benefits without playing the shoot 'em kill 'em games. Luckily, we have the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) that rates most all games and lets buyers know what to expect before purchasing a specific software. Ratings run from eC, for games geared toward an early childhood audience to Ao for adults only. Learn more about this third party rating system at esrb.org. Just as reading, playing outside and practicing an instrument, the use of video games is proving to be more and more important in developing a well rounded person. One article we came across cited a 2010 report by the Federation of American Scientists (FAS) proclaiming that children need more, not less video game play. FAS says that “games can teach higher-order thinking skills, interpretive analysis, problem solving and adaptation to rapid change.” Therefore, this type of interface is being increasingly used as an educational tool. The most obvious example of that is the military’s use of flight simulators - those too are video games. Like we said, video games are not just for kids anymore.
One presenter that we watched in our research said, “We like people better after we play a game with them.” Think about that, it’s true. Remember the days of “Yahtzee”, “Sorry!” or “Monopoly”? those are still classic, healthy, family bonding activities. Now available to us is an even a broader selection of activity and entertainment that has several benefits beyond a fun way to pass time. So, lighten up, get smarter and healthier with a fun video game!
Daphne Bavelier’s Video Game Benefits Keynote Debunks Common Myths
TED Talks Jane McGonigal: Gaming Can Make a Better World
The Benefits of Video Games, ABC News Blog, December 26, 2011
Entertainment Software Rating Board www.ESRB.org
Keynote Gabe Zichermann at TNW2012, “Why Video Games Make You Smarter”
and personal experience were referenced in the writing of this article.
Queen of Pawns - South Florida
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