Are video games affecting our children growth?

Video games have attracted children ever since their introduction. The growth of this industry is the best indicator to show the popularity of these games. According to a report, more than 97% of American teenagers play these games. The worth of the domestic game industry in America is $12 billion a year these days. Compare it to the worldwide market value of $100 million in 1985 and you will realize how much improvement has occurred in this field.

This form of entertainment requires the user to become a part of the script. As a result, you can relate much closely with the characters. The quality of videos games have evolved alongside technology and the modern ones demand total attention in order to be a successful gamer. The level of engagement is much more than what is needed while viewing a television program or a movie. That’s why they do have more chances of affecting your everyday habits. The structure of brain also changes. Shawn Green, the psychologist at University of Wisconsin, emphasized this and said,

“Video games change your brain. Playing video games change the brain’s physical structure the same way as do learning to read, playing the piano, or navigating using a map. Much like exercise can build muscle, the powerful combination of concentration and rewarding surges of neurotransmitters like dopamine strengthen neural circuits that can build the brain.”

There are a lot of critics who say that these games are not good for children due to the numerous negative effects. On the other hand, a lot of studies have shown that these games have positive impacts on the children like the development of better hand-eye coordination. As both these claims are somewhat true, we must know both sides of the picture and for that following is the list of positive and negative effects of video games.

Positive Effects

1.      Develops Problem Solving Skills

The first thing that is improved is the logical thinking of the child. Most of the games require you to look for ways of coming out of different scenarios. This improves the problem-solving skills which enable you to think of a better solution in less time.

2.      Teaches Resource Management

There are a lot of games out there in the market where management of resources is an essential part of the gameplay. Through these games, children can learn to utilize the available resources in the best possible way. The also improves their planning capabilities. SimCity, Age of Empire, and Clash of Clans are some popular games where this skill is nurtured.

3.      Improves Hand-eye Coordination and Reflexes

Shooting games are best for strengthening this part of your personality. The time you get for decision making is minimal in such games, your brain’s ability to react increases many times. This, in turn, helps with your hand-eye coordination. The message is transmitted from the eyes to the brain and from the brain to the hands at a much faster rate. This skill comes in very handy if you are a surgeon or a pilot where swift reflexes are a necessity.

Negative Effects

1.      Presence of Violence

The first and the most obvious negative impact is that these games teach a lot of violence. We do get a lot of shooting games based on World Wars and stuff like that. Scientific research confirms that the children who play a lot of violent games develop aggressive behavior and feelings. They become immune to violent acts and in extreme cases try to act that way in real life. This is when things can become really dangerous. Another common reservation is that many games are designed in a way where rewards are given on performing violent moves.

2.      Social Isolation

This is another effect which is alarmingly increasing day by day. The addiction of these games is so much that children are confined to their rooms. Lack of physical activity like sports leads to many diseases like obesity. The academic results are deeply affected as the students are unable to focus on their education. They do not spend much time with their friends or family which leads to frustration in the long run. This also affects their social abilities like interaction as they don’t feel confident about their conversation skills.