Playing video games is good for your brain – here’s how

advantages and disadvantages of playing video games essay

Director of the International Gaming Research Unit and Professor of Gambling Studies, Nottingham Trent University

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Dr. Mark Griffiths has received research funding from a wide range of organizations including the Economic and Social Research Council, the British Academy and the Responsibility in Gambling Trust. He has also carried out consultancy for numerous gaming companies in the area of social responsibility and responsible gaming.

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advantages and disadvantages of playing video games essay

Whether playing video games has negative effects is something that has been debated for 30 years, in much the same way that rock and roll, television, and even the novel faced much the same criticisms in their time.

Purported negative effects such as addiction, increased aggression, and various health consequences such as obesity and repetitive strain injuries tend to get far more media coverage than the positives. I know from my own research examining both sides that my papers on video game addiction receive far more publicity than my research into the social benefits of, for example, playing online role-playing games .

However there is now a wealth of research which shows that video games can be put to educational and therapeutic uses , as well as many studies which reveal how playing video games can improve reaction times and hand-eye co-ordination. For example, research has shown that spatial visualisation ability, such as mentally rotating and manipulating two- and three-dimensional objects, improves with video game playing .

To add to this long line of studies demonstrating the more positive effects of video games is a study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences by Vikranth Bejjanki and colleagues. Their newly published paper demonstrates that the playing of action video games – the sort of fast-paced, 3D shoot-em-up beloved of doomsayers in the media – confirms what other studies have revealed, that players show improved performance in perception, attention, and cognition.

In a series of experiments on small numbers of gamers (10 to 14 people in each study), the researchers reported that gamers with previous experience of playing such action video games were better at perceptual tasks such as pattern discrimination than gamers with less experience.

In another experiment, they trained gamers that had little previous experience of playing action games, giving them 50 hours practice. It was showed that these gamers performed much better on perceptual tasks than they had prior to their training. The paper concludes:

The enhanced learning of the regularity and structure of environments may act as a core mechanism by which action video game play influences performance in perception, attention, and cognition.

In my own papers , I have pointed out many features and qualities that make video games potentially useful. For instance, in an educational context, video games can be fun and stimulating, which means it’s easier to maintain a pupil’s undivided attention for longer. Because of the excitement, video games may also be a more appealing way of learning than traditional methods for some.

Video games have an appeal that crosses many demographic boundaries, such as age, gender, ethnicity, or educational attainment. They can be used to help set goals and rehearse working towards them, provide feedback, reinforcement, self-esteem, and maintain a record of behavioural change.

Their interactivity can stimulate learning, allowing individuals to experience novelty, curiosity and challenge that stimulates learning. There is the opportunity to develop transferable skills, or practice challenging or extraordinary activities, such as flight simulators, or simulated operations.

Because video games can be so engaging, they can also be used therapeutically. For instance, they can be used as a form of physiotherapy as well as in more innovative contexts. A number of studies have shown that when children play video games following chemotherapy they need fewer painkillers than others.

Video games have great educational potential in addition to their entertainment value. Games specifically designed to address a specific problem or teach a specific skill have been very successful, precisely because they are motivating, engaging, interactive, and provide rewards and reinforcement to improve.

But the transferability of skills outside the game-playing context is an important factor. What’s also clear from the scientific literature is that the negative consequences of playing almost always involve people that are excessive video game players. There is little evidence of serious acute adverse effects on health from moderate play.

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Essay: Advantages and disadvantages of video games

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Pros of playing Video Games (Advantages)

1. of course video games are fun, 2. promotes problem solving skills, logical and quick thinking.

A lot of video games require the player to solve a puzzle or other problems in a short amount of time without loosing accuracy. This helps the development of his ability of problem solving and logical thinking, which can be used in real life.

3. Improves hand-eye coordination

In most video games, the player is holding a controller and watching the screen, he then acts as fast as he possibly can according to what is happening on the screen. In shooting games, the character may be running and shooting at the same time. This requires the player to keep track of the position of the character, where it is heading, its speed, where the gun is aiming, if the gunfire is hitting the enemy, and so on. All these factors need to be taken into account, and then the player must then coordinate the brain’s interpretation and reaction with the movement in his hands and fingertips. This process requires a great deal of eye-hand coordination, and in some cases, it even improves reflexes.

4. Opportunity for multitasking and managing multiple objectives

In strategy games, for instance, while developing a city, an unexpected surprise like an enemy might emerge. This forces the player to be flexible and quickly change tactics or rethink his goals.

5. Increases social interaction

Multiplayer video games improve teamwork, cooperation, and could be a great way for social interaction. While players need to act as a team to win the game, they need to communicate with each other in order to win. This type of teamwork can be used in real life to improve team work.

6. Opportunity for planning and resource management

Video games teach the player to make management decisions and manage the effective use of limited resources. Also, the player decides the best use of resources, the same way as in real life.

7. Promotes situational awareness

A lot of strategy games require the player to become mindful of sudden situational changes in the game and adapt accordingly.

Defense News reported that the Army include video games to train soldiers to improve their situational awareness in combat.

8. Develops reading and math skills

The player reads to get instructions, follow storylines, and gather information from the game texts. Also, using math skills is important to win in many games. such as games that involves quantitative analysis like managing resources.

9. Encourages perseverance

In a game, the player usually fails the first time around, but he keeps on trying until he wins and then moves on to the next level.

10. Develops inductive reasoning and hypothesis testing

A player in an action game must constantly try out combinations of weapons and powers to use to defeat an enemy. If one does not work, he changes hypothesis and try the next one. So the player tests out several solutions to achieve his goal in the game.

11. Could be a good source of energy

When playing the Nintendo Wii, you can actually get a reasonable physical workout playing it! Games like Wii Fit or Just Dance require physical activity and have workout/sweat modes.

12. Could turn into a career.

A career in Video Game Testing could be a dream job, giving one access to the newest, cutting edge video games in production.

Cons of playing Video Games (Disadvantages)

1. can become addictive.

There is a big level of addictiveness in certain video games. People who are unable to deal with their problems might just resort to go to video games in order to escape their problems. It might be rare and uncommon, but some players have actually lost their jobs and lives over video games. In some severe and rare cases, players died because they did not stop playing to go eat or sleep.

2. Promotes violence

  • Most of the bad effects of video games come from the violence they contain. people who play more violent video games are more likely to have aggressive thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. They also could become immune to it, more inclined to act violently themselves, and are less likely to behave emphatically.
  • The player is in control of the violence and experiences the violence in his own eyes (killings, kicking, stabbing and shooting). In many games, the player is rewarded for being more violent. This active participation, repetition and reward are effective tools for learning behavior.
  • The American Psychological Association (APA) also concluded that there is a “consistent correlation” between violent game use and aggression, but finds insufficient evidence to link violent video play to criminal violence.

3. Promotes poor health

Video games may also have bad effects on some children’s health, including obesity, video-induced seizures. and postural, muscular and skeletal disorders, such as tendonitis, nerve compression, carpal tunnel syndrome.

4. Some video games teach kids the wrong values.

Violent behavior and aggression are rewarded. Which is not the case in the real-world. Also, when playing online, the player can pick up bad language and behavior from other people, and may be vulnerable to online dangers.

5. Games can confuse reality and fantasy.

6. affects academic achievement.

Depending on the over-all time spent playing video games, many game players would skip their homework to play games. This could affect their performance in school and would result in poor school grades.

Recommendations for Video Games

Because of the popularity of video games, completely eliminating them from a child’s life might be difficult. However, a parent can decrease the negative impact that they have by following a few tips:

  • Parents can best protect their children by remaining engaged with them to better understand the content, how they react, and providing limits and guidance as necessary
  • Video consoles and computers should be placed in common areas of the home, rather than in children’s bedrooms.
  • Set limits on the amount of time youths can play these games.
  • Encourage participation in sports or school activities in which youths can interact with peers in person rather than online.
  • Know the rating of the video games your child plays.
  • Supervising a child’s Internet use as there are now many “video games” available for playing online.
  • Take the time to discuss with a child the games he is playing or other media he is watching.

The ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board) looks at a number of factors when rating games, Similar to the movie industry’s rating system. In particular, it considers the amount of violence, sex, controversial language, and substance abuse found in a game. Based on its developed guidelines, it then gives an age recommendation and content descriptor to each game submitted.

The following are the rating symbols currently in use, according to the ESRB Web site.

Early Childhood (EC)

Content is intended for young children.

Everyone (E)

Content is generally suitable for all ages. May contain minimal cartoon, fantasy or mild violence and/or infrequent use of mild language.

Content is generally suitable for ages 13 and up. May contain violence, suggestive themes, crude humor, minimal blood, simulated gambling and/or infrequent use of strong language.

Content is generally suitable for ages 17 and up. May contain intense violence, blood and gore, sexual content and/or strong language.

Adults Only (AO)

Content suitable only for adults ages 18 and up. May include prolonged scenes of intense violence, graphic sexual content and/or gambling with real currency.

Rating Pending (RP)

Not yet assigned a final ESRB rating. Appears only in advertising, marketing and promotional materials related to a “boxed” video game that is expected to carry an ESRB rating, and should be replaced by a game’s rating once it has been assigned.

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11 Advantages and Disadvantages of Video Games

Video Games

Often based on fantasy, they also reflect both history and current events. But whether it’s a good or bad thing is up for debate. Even though video games are a household name today, they were born in the research labs of scientists.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Video Games

It all started in 1952 when British professor A.S. Douglas created OXO, better known as tic-tac-toe at the University of Cambridge. Then Spacewar! came out in 1962, which was the first video game that could be played on multiple computer installations.

In 1972, Atari introduced Pong, the first truly successful commercial arcade video game. Since then, video games have evolved from arcade systems to home consoles, handheld consoles, and mobile devices. Today, video games make up a massive $100 billion global industry.

Video games are often at the forefront of computer technology and they have been a part of our culture since the past few decades . But let’s face it, they have their share of Pros and Cons. Let’s take a further look at the pros and cons of video games.

Advantages of Video Games

Even though video games are demonized by most non-players, many scientists and psychologists find that video games can have many benefits. Some of them are explained below.

1. Improved Vision

Studies suggest that video game players may get an unexpected benefit from them; better vision. They have been shown to increase players’ ability to distinguish subtle differences in shades of gray.

They may also help players increase their ability to visually detect the direction of movement. It was found that gamers spotted targets on a cluttered screen 80% of the time, while non-gamers managed this only 30% of the time.

2. Brain Booster

Playing video games directly impacts regions of the brain responsible for memory, spatial orientation, information organizations, and fine motor skills. As people age, the importance of playing games tends to increase.

It could improve decision-making skills; compared to non-players, gamers who spend time daily with fast-paced games can react to questions or situations up to 25% faster.

3. Improved Life Skills

Video games involve taking risks, and the ability to strategize. It teaches patience, perseverance, and the right judgment. It also helps people find new friends and social connections. Besides, gamers become better at critical analysis and learn to concentrate on tasks at hand to completion.

4. May Ease Anxiety and Depression

It has been found that people are more confident, energetic and emotionally positive when they play video games, which is exactly the opposite of what depression brings about.

People who feel depressed lack physical energy, find it difficult to carry out daily tasks and are generally pessimistic. Thus, playing can reduce the risks for depression, help with arthritis, and even be a therapeutic option for aphasia.

5. Painkiller

According to a study from the American Pain Society, video games, and more specifically 3D ones, could help reduce the brain’s response to physical pain.

Playing an attention-grabbing video game may distract one away from a painful activity and help them with chronic pain conditions, especially children.

Disadvantages of Video Games

Video games can teach us high-level thinking skills, but too much of anything can be bad. Some consequences of playing these games are listed below.

1. Addiction

Video games are designed to be addictive, so it is essential to have some self-control. Especially people with poor impulse control or who have a hard time fitting in are most vulnerable to game addiction.

It could be because people tend to play games to fill the void that real-world problems leave behind. It is better to watch out for this form of addiction because it might eventually end up costing you a lot.

2. Social Replacement

Video games often act as a replacement for real-time human connections. People who find themselves playing hours upon hours of video games may find themselves losing touch with the relationships they’ve built with other people.

People argue that with internet -connected games, they can easily hang out with friends and families without ever leaving home, but this type of virtual get together is no replacement for actual face-to-face interaction.

New studies show that the risk of being overweight increases with every hour people spend on virtual play. Lack of motion and overplaying lead to muscle pain as well. Moreover, the addiction to these games leads to sleep deprivation which contributes to obesity.

Video game addiction could lead to other levels of psychological stress as well. Gamers may suffer from low self-esteem, have social anxieties, or even suffer from depression.

Excessive gaming can also inspire feelings of guilt and shame. It is possible that uncontrolled gaming could enhance the signs and symptoms of other mental disorders.

5. Could Limit Academic Process

Although video games can improve the strategic thinking decision-making process, they can also deteriorate them.

Students who use their free time to play video games can struggle to keep up with school/college. Most gamers have been seen to procrastinate on their studying, or they simply ignore a deadline just to play their favorite game.

6. Violence

Often, children playing violent video games depict a lack of self-control and an increase in emotional arousal. While violent video games could have different effects on different people, they are all concerning. So, it is better to choose games you feel are appropriate for both you and your children.

To Conclude

Video games aren’t bad for you as long as you aren’t overdoing. So, enjoy your downtime and relax with your games but get out there and keep your life as diverse as possible as well, because eventually, you have got to win the game of life.

  • history.com
  • dl.acm.org 
  • www.cnet.com
  • ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  • readersdigest.com.au

I am Ila Adhikari from Chauni, Kathmandu. I’m currently pursuing my Bachelors Degree in Computer Engineering from Kathmandu Engineering College, Kathmandu. I’m also a fellow at Women Leaders in Technology. I enjoy reading, gardening and doing cool DIYs. I have worked as a tech content writer for eSatya, a blockchain initiative in Nepal in the past. At present, I’m working on a blockchain based research project. As time flies, I want to listen to my heart in doing what I love and continue learning new stuff.

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Essay#3 | Video Games

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task..

  • Analyse the question. (1-2 minutes)
  • Brainstorm as many ideas as you can. (2 minutes)
  • Make a plan for the answer. Decide how many paragraphs you will need and choose ideas from the fist you have fact brainstormed, in your plan, note down examples you want to use as well. (2 minutes)
  • Write your answer following your plan. While writing your answer, try to use some conditional sentences and the type of emphatic language you looked at in Activity 6. Keep the sample answer in front of you as a model. (30 minutes)
  • Check your work carefully for mistakes. (4 minutes)

Write about the following topic:

Nowadays many people have access to computers and a large number of children enjoy playing video games.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of playing video games for children?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model answer.

In today’s world where we all have access to the internet, more and more children are playing computer games and their popularity is increasing all the time. This essay will look at the positive aspects these games can have and also the negative effects on children.

Firstly, as education is becoming more demanding for many young people, computer games can provide a way of relaxing and reducing stress. Computer games can take us into different worlds where we can escape from reality. In addition to this, computer games today are very advanced and can help children develop their thinking skills. Instructions need to be understood and games often include complicated problems which need to be solved.

However, there are also many problems with the increasing popularity of computer games. Many children become addicted to them and they play for hours, sometimes through the night. In South Korea, the government has banned children from playing games after midnight as the problem was so great and the effect on education was very negative. Furthermore, some children find it difficult to identify what is real and what is virtual. Some people argue that this has led to a rise in crime inspired by video games. This is not proven, but it is undeniable that games today can be very violent.

To sum up, there are both advantages and disadvantages with computer games and it seems that parents need to exercise caution and monitor their children’s activity as some games may be more suitable than others.

(252 words)

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What Are the Pros and Cons of Video Games?

Video games have become one of the world’s favorite pastimes. There are almost  3 billion gamers  worldwide in 2021, with gaming prevalence continuing to grow every year.

Gaming is not without controversy, though. Critics of video games will stress that the cons of video games outweigh the pros, while those who support video games will say the opposite.

Objectively, there can be positive effects of video games when played in moderation. However, there can also be negative effects when played excessively.

It’s best to look at the pros and cons of video games through your personal experience and remember that the  key is  gaming in moderation .

Pros of Gaming

Although research is still ongoing on the pros and cons of video games, some studies thus far have shown the following benefits when an individual plays video games:

  • Improved cognitive functions
  • Problem-solving skills and the use of logic
  • Hand-to-eye coordination
  • Faster and more accurate decision-making
  • Improved eye for details
  • Social activity and teamwork

These pros of video games might help you with tasks that you do every day, but they might also be applicable for jobs where you require a great deal of attention and concentration, such as working as a surgeon, driver, or programmer.

On the surface, these pros of video games look appealing. Still, it’s important to remember that these positive effects of video games come with a catch:  they can be far outweighed by the cons if gaming becomes an addiction.

These are the pros of gaming. You can read our full article about the  positive effects of video games  here.

Games Improve Cognitive Functions

Video games have shown to improve your cognitive abilities , such as:

  • Visuospatial ability (the ability to recognize objects around you and estimate the distances between them)
  • Increased processing speed
  • Deductive reasoning
  • Mathematical intelligence

For example, a  study from 2018  included 170 participants. In the study, one group was made up of gamers, while the other group was non-gamers.

Both groups received the same questionnaire with questions and assignments that would test their cognitive abilities. The group of gamers showed better results in almost every field of the test.

Games Improve Problem-Solving Skills and Logic

Video games involve a lot of critical thinking, problem-solving, and the use of logic. 

As a gamer, you have to work your way through the game by using specific skills to achieve the game’s goals.

Gamers have  more grey matter and better brain connectivity  than non-gamers, resulting from extensive playtime requiring problem-solving skills.

Developing these skills in video games may translate into better job performance or improved performance in school .

Improved Hand-to-Eye Coordination

Playing video games improves your hand-to-eye coordination, making you more capable of performing tasks that involve coordination of your eyes and your hands.

These tasks can include everything from everyday tasks such as driving, typing, or performing manual tasks with your hands to professional skills like performing surgeries.

These improvements were confirmed by a  study from 2007 , which involved laparoscopic surgery trainees that also played video games. The study found that surgeons who played video games regularly had higher accuracy and could complete tasks faster than non-gamers. 

Faster and More Accurate Decision-Making

Another pro of gaming is the ability to make more accurate decisions in a much quicker fashion.

Players of video games will tell you that several games prompt you to make your decisions quickly based on the information you receive from the game itself.  Fast-paced games , in particular, contributed to a gamer’s ability to make quick decisions.

Some games, especially competitive ones where you play against other players, can be punishing if you make a wrong decision. For example, the game Call of Duty involves fast-paced action, and you need to make the right decisions at the right time to win.

Again, this skill can be crucial in several fields of work, such as in the army or in the hospital, where you need to make fast and accurate decisions based on the facts and information you have, especially when you have limited time.

You See More Detail

Video games and eyesight quality is still a hotly debated topic. Some studies tell us that excessive screen time causes eyestrain and might even hurt your eyes. In contrast,   other studies  show us that video games can improve your ability to see details in your sight, especially in your periphery.

Studies  that show excessive screen time is harmful find you may experience negative effects such as eye strain, headaches, loss of focus flexibility, nearsightedness, and even retinal damage.

On the other hand, playing video games might improve your ability to see more details in your eyesight, especially in your periphery. This development of your eyes might help you drive better and perform various tasks that include driving.

It’s essential to stay within the  recommended screen time guidelines for all ages  since too much screen time may cause damage to your eyes. However, if you play games in moderation, you might even be able to see some positive effects on your eyesight.

Games Promote Social Activity and Teamwork

Video games can promote teamwork and social engagement with other players, making it a modern form of socialization for kids and young adults.

Some games can force you to cooperate with other players, making video games a beneficial exercise for  team-building  and establishing social connections with other players.

Also, several games present the opportunity to make new friends and connect to them in ways that no other medium does, including the chance to meet people from all over the world.

However, excessive playtime can lead to increased isolation and loneliness , which are linked to mental health problems like depression and social anxiety . Although gaming is a social outlet for many individuals, and making new friends from different cultures is possible, a balance of in-game contacts and real-life friendships is crucial.

Cons of Video Games

Despite several benefits of playing video games, there are also many disadvantages of video games that might impact the quality of your life.

These are the most common cons of video games:

  • Video games can make you addicted
  • Elevated risk of aggression
  • Games replace real-world problems
  • Some games promote gambling
  • Decreased physical and mental health
  • Lack of focus and concentration

As good as the positive effects of games might be, the  negative effects of video games  can outweigh the pros if you develop a gaming addiction. 

Video Games Can Make You Addicted

The first and the biggest problem with video games is that they can make you addicted .

Video game addiction  is a rising problem and likely to increase in the future. The World Health Organization has recognized gaming disorder as an actual mental health condition, and global prevalence is around  3-4% of gamers . Considering that there are about 3 billion gamers globally,  the number of addicted gamers  is estimated to be between 90 – 100 million.

One of the main reasons behind the pandemic of video game addiction is that  video games are designed to be addictive . They provide instant gratification and encourage gamers to keep playing every day. Players who play every day may even receive bonuses and special rewards in encouraging them to play even more.

But the concept of addictive video games is even more complicated. They manipulate several aspects of our psychology, such as:

  • Progression of our in-game character, which replaces real-life personal development
  • Loot boxes, microtransactions, and in-app purchases encourage you to keep spending more money 
  • Socializing virtually with other players replaces real-world friendships and connections
  • In-game mechanics that  link gaming to gambling

Once a video game becomes an addiction, it will far outweigh all the pros of video games. It will impact your professional life, personal development, and interpersonal relations.

If you feel like you or someone you know is addicted to video games, feel free to try some of the programs and resources we have on Game Quitters:

  • Respawn program for gamers
  • Reclaim program for families
  • Find a video game addiction therapist near you
  • If you’re a therapist and want professional training, consider  INTENTA’s training
  • Join our  community forum  and read our  blog

Elevated Risk of Aggression

Several studies ( 1 ,  2 ,  3 ) have shown that video games are a risk factor behind aggression. 

However, the studies also found that video games are not the only factor behind this aggression. Video games might increase the risk of aggression in an individual in combination with other factors.

There’s also a stigma around video games promoted by the media, which says that video games are violent and promote violence. But it’s far too easy to pin this problem down solely to video games, although they can be a contributing factor.

Although  the link between video games and violence  is still hotly contested, many parents report increased aggression in their children when playing excessively, including damaging property. Therefore, parents should be mindful to ensure their children play age-appropriate games and seek professional support if they experience increasingly aggressive behavior.

Games Can Replace Real-World Problems

One of the main problems with playing video games too much is that they neglect other key areas of one’s life, such as one’s personal or professional life.

It’s a safe place to fail, and it presents an easy way to  escape real-world problems . Although escaping from stress is not necessarily bad, the problem occurs when gamers start to neglect other critical aspects of their real life.

When that happens, it might be time to consider limiting your playtime, replacing it with other activities, and dealing with your life problems.

Some Games Promote Gambling

Modern video games are linked to gambling through loot boxes and microtransactions that promote compulsive spending.

Gamers who suffer from gaming addiction can also  develop a gambling addiction , exacerbated by the seeming ease of access to gambling-like mechanics inside modern games. Many of these games are played by kids, meaning that children have access to gambling mechanics using real-life money. Parents report discovering hundreds or even thousands of dollars spent on their credit cards without their knowledge.

Gamers Can Develop Physical or Mental Health Issues

Excessive game time can lead to physical and mental health issues, which include:

  • Depression and social anxiety
  • Lack of motivation
  • Poor emotional regulation
  • Poor sleep hygiene
  • Muscle loss and fat gain
  • Dehydration

It’s important to take a closer look if you develop any of these symptoms; you may want to consider  video game addiction therapy  if you do.

Lack of Concentration

Spending a long time in front of a screen playing games can impact a gamer’s ability to focus and  concentrate  on other tasks such as school, work, college, or study.

Games demand a lot of attention to detail and concentration. But, unfortunately, we’re only able to focus for a certain amount of time daily, and the more time you spend gaming, the less attention you will have for other tasks.

The pros and cons of video games are interlinked and will differ from one gamer to another. There are some positive benefits of games when played in moderation. However, there are also negative effects if played excessively.

You should always be aware of the cons of games, and if you notice the first signs of these cons developing, you should consider moderating your gaming or seek help to prevent further problems with gaming addiction.

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Video Games: Advantages and Disadvantages of Computer Gaming

Table of contents, advantages of video games, influence of video games on children under age of 12, improves coordination, improves problem-solving skills, improves attention and concentration.

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Home » Topics » Video Games for Kid: Pros and Cons

Video Games for Kid: Pros and Cons

How to use video games for good and prevent addiction..

Article at a Glance • Video games can be used to help improve test scores, teach life and job skills, improve brain function, and encourage physical exercise. • Most popular video games and apps are addictive by design • Because video game addiction can negatively impact social and physical health, parents should be aware of the symptoms.

Kids have been wild about video games for decades. But the introduction of mobile game systems and smartphone apps took that to new heights.

Mobility brought gaming into the car, the bedroom, and even to the bus stop. With roughly 95% of U.S. teens owning smartphones, it’s hard to find a kid who isn’t playing some kind of game.

Although video games get a lot of bad press, they do have some benefits. The trick is to strike the right balance of good content and appropriate limits. After all, video games should enhance your child’s life, not take it over.

Video Game Pros:

Studies have found that video games can improve learning. When video games have been used in the classroom, teachers see improved test scores. Games also allow students to learn and then apply what they have learned in a real-life situation. Medical and military training programs both use simulation-style games to teach tools and strategy.

Life Skills

Many video games teach kids how to delegate, work as a team, and prioritize. Internet-enabled games that let kids play with their real-life friends often require collaboration and division of tasks to beat the level.

Improved Brain Function

Video games have been shown to help us improve our ability to reason and solve problems. They help us make split-second decisions, process information more quickly, and multitask effectively. Games can also improve hand-eye coordination and boost auditory perception.

Motion-controlled games like the Nintendo Wii were once thought to be the answer to parental concerns about video games leading to obesity. But studies have shown these video games alone don’t increase kids’ overall activity level.

However, there is some hope in the form of smartphone games that encourage kids to leave the house. Pokemon Go is one example, but your kids may also enjoy the real-life treasure hunt appeal of activities like Geocaching. Some apps like The Walk , blend storytelling and exercise to get players moving.

The Federation of American Scientists (FAS) argues that kids need to play more video games in order to be competitive in the current job market. In a report they released in 2010, the FAS said games helped teach higher-order thinking skills like problem-solving, interpretive analysis, and more.

Video Game Cons:

While every other study seems to draw opposite conclusions about the social effects of playing violent video games,  studies involving brain scans are concerning.

Simply put, children playing violent video games show decreased activity in areas of the brain dedicated to self-control and an increase in emotional arousal.

Even though the debate continues, be aware of how violent games affect your children. If you notice a problem, go with your gut.

Help your children choose games you feel are appropriate. Many console game ratings include detailed information about the contents of the game’s violence level, language, topics, etc.

England’s National Health Service began treating video game addiction this year, after the World Health Organization listed “gaming disorder” in its International Classification of Disease .

What makes video games addictive? Playing releases dopamine into our systems, which gives us a feeling of pleasure and tells our brain to “do it again.”

As a matter of fact, video games are designed to be addictive. John Hopson, a games researcher at Microsoft Game Studios is also a doctor of behavioral and brain sciences who writes about game design.

In “Behavioral Game Design” he explained how game designers can control behavior by providing simple stimulus and rewards at strategic times and places.

Children with poor impulse control or who have a hard time fitting in are most vulnerable to game addiction. This may be because video games offer an easy way to fill the void created when real-world relationships are hard to form.

Social Replacement

Be aware of how much your children are playing video games and if it’s replacing or negatively impacting other aspects of their lives.

Internet-connected games make it easy to “hang out” with friends after school without ever leaving home. But this type of virtual get-together is no replacement for actual face-to-face interaction.

Setting aside the potential problems of online predators and cyber-bullying, virtual hangouts rob kids of the opportunity to practice their social skills and to move their bodies from one house to another.

Our Role in Video Games

Video games can play a positive role in our children’s lives, but we need to be there to help set limits.

If you’re worried that your child is becoming too obsessed with games, then it is time to sit down and talk. Be sensitive and nonjudgmental. Try to agree on a reasonable amount of space for video games to occupy in your family life.

Enlist the help of your pediatrician if you have concerns. He or she may have great tips and can even recommend a therapist who specializes in tweens or teens.

Remember, even though video games have their place, they should occupy less time than what kids need to devote to exercising, socializing, studying, and sleeping. In our ever-more-connected world, we could all use a little more practice just being unplugged.

Signs and Symptoms of Video Game Abuse:

  • Falling grades
  • Not sleeping enough, feelings of fatigue
  • Free time is used almost exclusively for playing video games
  • Irritability when not playing video games
  • Neglect of hygiene
  • Disinterest in other activities
  • Increased anxiety

Jonathen Bartholomew, D.O.

As a pediatrician and father of six kids, Dr. Bartholomew has a lot of experience with twins and premature infants. In addition to getting to know his patient families, he enjoys the great outdoors, Dr. Seuss, and BYU football.

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advantages and disadvantages of playing video games essay

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IELTS essay about the advantages and disadvantages of computer games

by Manjusha Nambiar · Published November 1, 2015 · Updated April 20, 2024

IELTS essay

Some people think that computer games are bad for children, while others believe that they are useful. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of computer games and give your own opinion.

Sample response

Computer games are addictive. That is the main reason children play them for hours on end. There are several disadvantages to spending a lot of time in front of the computer.

Computer games merely provide entertainment. Children who are addicted to computer games tend to have poor grades because they do not get enough time to focus on their studies. Also, they have reduced social skills. They are constantly glued to their screens and show hardly any interest in interacting with their family members or peers. This can lead to social isolation and serious behavioural problems.

Some popular computer games glorify violence and crime. Children who grow up playing these games may get into anti-social activities. Even if they don’t become criminals in the future, they may still exhibit a disregard for values. Computer games also cause vision problems in children. Children are not supposed to stare at the computer screen for hours on end. If they do, they will develop serious eye strain which may also affect their studies.

On the bright side, computer games make children competitive. Games that require them to play against virtual or real opponents living in another part of the world improve their concentration and ability to take decisions quickly. These are definitely positive aspects but a child does not have to play computer games to develop these skills.

To conclude, after analysing the advantages and disadvantages of playing computer games it is not hard to see that the disadvantages outweigh the advantages. In my opinion, parents should restrict the amount of time their children spend in front of the computers. That said, there is no harm in playing a game or two every now and then, but addiction is definitely a problem.

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Computer Games Essay

This page analyzes a  computer games essay  and also notes how you can make good use of the question to plan and organize your essay.

You have to be careful with this essay as although you have to discuss the pros and cons of the issue, there is a second part to the question that is not about this.

Take a look at the IELTS task 2 question:

Nowadays many people have access to computers on a wide basis and a large number of children play computer games. 

What are the positive and negative impacts of playing computer games and what can be done to minimize the bad effects?

The Topic and the Task

Remember to always analyze the question carefully. The topic should be fairly clear:

  • Computer games

Remember to also look carefully to see if the topic is being narrowed down to a particular aspect of the topic. In this case it is:

Children Computer Games Essay

Now you need to check what the task is. How many things do you have to write about?

Hopefully you realized there are three things that you can easily turn into brainstorming questions:

  • What are the positive impacts of computer games on children?
  • What are the negative impacts of computer games on children?
  • How can the negative impacts be minimized?

Your answers to these questions will form your computer games essay.

You do not have much time and you have three things to answer, so one or two ideas for each is enough, as remember you will need to explain your ideas and give examples.

Now, take a look at the model answer.

Computer Games Essay Question:

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Nowadays many people have access to computers on a wide basis and a large number of children play computer games.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own experience or knowledge.

Write at least 250 words.

Computer Games Essay Model Answer:

Access to computers has increased significantly over recent decades, and the number of children playing games on computers has increased too. This essay will consider the positive and negative impacts of this and discuss ways to avoid the potential negative effects.

With regards to the positive effects, playing computer games can develop children’s cognitive skills. Many popular games require abstract and high level thinking skills in order to win, skills that may not be taught at school. For example, children need to follow instructions, solve complex problems and use logic in many of the games that are currently popular. Such experience will be beneficial to a child’s progression into an adult.

However, concerns have been raised about the prolific use of computer games by children, much of this related to the violence they contain. The problem is that in many of the games children are rewarded for being more violent, and this violence is repeated again and again. For instance, many games involve children helping their character to kill, kick, stab and shoot. This may lead to increased aggressive feelings, thoughts, and behaviours.  

In order to minimize these negative impacts, parents need to take certain steps. Firstly, some video games are rated according to their content, so parents must check this and ensure their children are not allowed to have access to games that are unsuitable. Parents can also set limits on the length of time games are played. Finally, parents should also take an active interest in the games their children are playing so they can find out how they feel about what they are observing. 

To sum up, there are benefits of computer games, but there are disadvantages too. However, if parents take adequate precautions, the severity of these negative impacts can be avoided.

( 295 Words )

This computer games essay is well-organized and it directly answers the question, with each paragraph addressing one of the tasks.

Note how the topic sentences match the tasks (which have been taken from the prompt):

  • What are the positive impacts of computer games on children ?

With regards to the positive effects, playing computers games can develop children’s cognitive skills.

  • What are the negative impacts of computer games on children ?

However, concerns have been raised about the prolific use of computer games by children, much of this related to the violence they contain.

  • How can the negative impacts be minimized ?

In order to minimize these negative impacts, parents need to take certain steps.

This is why analyzing the question is so important. This provides you with the basic building blocks with which to write your essay.

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ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF PLAYING VIDEO GAMES

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IELTS essay ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF PLAYING VIDEO GAMES

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Home — Essay Samples — Entertainment — Video Games — Advantages and Disadvantages of Video Games

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Published: Jan 8, 2020

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Table of contents

Shifting paradigm of play, bibliography.

  • Reading, Richard. "The Importance of Play in Promoting Healthy Child Development and Maintaining Strong Parent–child Bonds." Child: Care, Health and Development33, no. 6 (2007): 807-08.
  • Maccoby, Eleanor E. "Parenting and Its Effects on Children: On Reading and Misreading Behavior Genetics." Annual Review of Psychology51, no. 1 (2000): 1-27.
  • Hembree-Kigin, Toni L., and Cheryl Bodiford Mcneil. "Foundations for Parent—Child Interaction Therapy." Parent—Child Interaction Therapy, 1995, 1-13.
  • Yelland, N. Early Childhood Education Journal (1999) 26: 217. Gehlbach, Roger D. "Children's Play and Self-Education." Curriculum Inquiry 16, no. 2 (1986): 203-13.
  • Uhlmann, Eric, and Jane Swanson. "Exposure to Violent Video Games Increases Automatic Aggressiveness." Journal of Adolescence, February 2004.
  • Blumenthal-Barby, J S. "Psychiatry's New Manual (DSM-5): Ethical and Conceptual Dimensions." Journal of Medical Ethics40, no. 8 (2014): 531-36.
  • Mitchell, Alice, and Carol Savill-Smith. The Use of Computer and Video Games for Learning: A Review of the Literature. London: Learning and Skills Development Agency, 2004.

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  1. Advantages and Disadvantages of Video Games

    Video games: advantages and disadvantages. Firstly, it is argued by many that video games can cause a lot of health problems. For instance, looking at the screen for long hours can harm eyes and cause vision impairment because the cornea and iris of the eyes are not intended for viewing electronic devices for a long time. Moreover, using video games for too long may also cause headaches ...

  2. Advantages and Disadvantages of Video Games

    Advantages of Video Games. Video games stimulate the mind, keeping it active during game sessions to solve riddles, logic problems or different types of situations. This also improves concentration and reflexes, all this being useful for some jobs in life. When it comes to decision-making, they also take relevance when elections are held in a ...

  3. Are Video Games Good for You?

    Essentially, the more you learn, the more your brain can adapt. "Like stimulants, video gaming can increase gray matter in the brain," says Dr. Manos. "Gray matter provides interconnectivity ...

  4. PDF The Benefits of Playing Video Games

    Given this vast diversity in video games, a single definition may not be useful. In fact, top scholars in the field have declared, "One can no more say what the effects of video games are, than one can say what the effects of food are" (Bavelier et al., 2011, p. 763). Thus, rather than define video games according to a convenient generality,

  5. Playing video games is good for your brain

    Video games have an appeal that crosses many demographic boundaries, such as age, gender, ethnicity, or educational attainment. They can be used to help set goals and rehearse working towards them ...

  6. Essay: Advantages and disadvantages of video games

    Pros of playing Video Games (Advantages) 1. Of course video games are fun! 2. Promotes problem solving skills, logical and quick thinking. A lot of video games require the player to solve a puzzle or other problems in a short amount of time without loosing accuracy. This helps the development of his ability of problem solving and logical ...

  7. 11 Advantages and Disadvantages of Video Games

    Improved Life Skills. Video games involve taking risks, and the ability to strategize. It teaches patience, perseverance, and the right judgment. It also helps people find new friends and social connections. Besides, gamers become better at critical analysis and learn to concentrate on tasks at hand to completion. 4.

  8. Advantages And Disadvantages Of Playing Video Games

    C. Our vision can be also affected after long periods of playing video games. We can feel irritations, headache, red eyes, etc. This happen because some type of games like Call of Duty, require the player to be focused the time. The light and the color of the screen play a big role in this. Second, videos games have a negative impact on social ...

  9. Advantages And Disadvantages Of Video Games Free Essay Example

    However, in this essay, I will focus on the cognitive and social benefits of video games. Furthermore, it will be argued that video games don't cause violence. Some people often think that playing video games is intellectually lazy. However, it turns out that playing these games develops a wide range of cognitive skills.

  10. Essay#3

    Firstly, as education is becoming more demanding for many young people, computer games can provide a way of relaxing and reducing stress. Computer games can take us into different worlds where we can escape from reality. In addition to this, computer games today are very advanced and can help children develop their thinking skills.

  11. What Are the Pros and Cons of Video Games?

    Although research is still ongoing on the pros and cons of video games, some studies thus far have shown the following benefits when an individual plays video games: Improved cognitive functions. Problem-solving skills and the use of logic. Hand-to-eye coordination.

  12. Video Games: Advantages and Disadvantages of Computer Gaming

    A computer game is an electronic amusement that includes communication with a UI to produce visual input on an a few dimensional video show gadget, for example, a TV screen augmented reality headset or PC screen.

  13. Pros and Cons of Video Games for Kids

    Improved Brain Function. Video games have been shown to help us improve our ability to reason and solve problems. They help us make split-second decisions, process information more quickly, and multitask effectively. Games can also improve hand-eye coordination and boost auditory perception.

  14. IELTS essay about the advantages and disadvantages of computer games

    IELTS essay. Some people think that computer games are bad for children, while others believe that they are useful. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of computer games and give your own opinion. Sample response. Computer games are addictive. That is the main reason children play them for hours on end.

  15. Playing Computer Games Essay: What are the pros and cons for children?

    This essay will consider the positive and negative impacts of this and discuss ways to avoid the potential negative effects. With regards to the positive effects, playing computer games can develop children's cognitive skills. Many popular games require abstract and high level thinking skills in order to win, skills that may not be taught at ...

  16. Disadvantages of Playing Video Games Free Essay Example

    There are many significant disadvantages of playing video games. First, electronic games might have a negative impact over personal physical health. Gamers become lazy because they do not exercise every day. For example, they often eat only junk foods while playing, so they can become obese. Don't use plagiarized sources. Get your custom essay on.

  17. IELTS essay ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF PLAYING VIDEO GAMES

    The advantages are that it improves hand and eye coordination, and it has a substantial effect on decision making; the disadvantages are that it dissocializes people and it can be addictive. In addition, one should consider these advantages and disadvantages before playing video games. popular due to technological advancements.

  18. AI Can't Solve the 'Wicked Problems' of Central Planning

    Not Even Artificial Intelligence Can Make Central Planning Work. Revolutionary AI technologies can't solve the 'wicked problems' facing policy makers. An image generated using the prompt ...

  19. Advantages and Disadvantages of Video Games

    Sports games such as football, tennis, and many others teach children the lesson of win and lose and improve themselves by acquiring certain skills. Cognitive games such as chess or jigsaw puzzles help improve the memory and thinking process of the child. But video games teach children to propagate violence and obsessions.