The Benefits of Video Games on Children's Health, Cognitive Abilities, and Social Skills

Video games have been a topic of debate for a long time. Some people believe that they are unproductive

and can even be harmful to children, however, others believe they offer numerous benefits. Recent studies

have revealed that gaming can positively impact children’s physical and mental health. Social scientists

have linked gaming with enhanced mental health which provides a sense of achievement, and even

improved physical fitness.4

One of the most surprising benefits of video games is their impact on cognitive abilities. According

to a recent article by the Chicago Tribune titled “Gaming makes kids physically fit? New research says

yes.” The article states that video games can improve focus, memory, and problem-solving skills.

Moreover, video games can help children improve their hand-eye coordination and reaction time. The

benefits of video games extend not only to cognitive abilities but also to mental health. Engaging in video

games has been found to reduce stress and anxiety, providing a much-needed escape and a source of

relaxation. Additionally, certain games, such as puzzle-solving or strategy games, can improve

problem-solving skills and enhance cognitive flexibility, which is crucial for adaptability and resilience in

daily life. Research has shown that playing video games can lead to the growth of the brain’s prefrontal

cortex, which is linked to a person’s personality and decision-making. This part of the brain is responsible

for many cognitive functions, including memory and navigational ability. Video games can provide a

sense of achievement and boost self-esteem. Completing a challenging level or winning a difficult match

can give players a sense of accomplishment and pride, which can translate to other areas of their lives.

Some studies have suggested that playing video games can help combat depression and anxiety by

providing a sense of control and achievement. For example, Minecraft, a popular game among children,

teaches them how to build structures, manage resources, and work with others. Similarly, games like

Portal and The Witness challenge players to solve complex puzzles and think creatively. As a result,

playing video games is a great benefit for kids. Another benefit of video games is that they improve

teamwork and collaboration skills. Many popular games, such as Overwatch and League of Legends,
require players to work together to achieve a common goal. This not only fosters communication and

cooperation but also helps players develop leadership skills and learn how to give and receive

constructive feedback. A fitting example of that is a young gamer who became a surgeon who performs

faster and makes fewer errors than more experienced surgeons, as noted by Bavelier in the third

paragraph.

It is interesting to note that some gamers experience a decrease in appetite during long gaming

sessions. For instance, Dan Wojtowicz, an 18-year-old high school student from Tinley Park, has

observed that when he goes on long gaming streaks, he doesn't feel as hungry as normal. Despite gaming

taking up a lot of his energy, he can go without eating for three to four hours at a time. Although this may

not be true for all gamers, it is an interesting observation that suggests that playing video games may have

some unexpected benefits on our bodies. Nonetheless, it is crucial to remember that a balanced diet and

regular exercise are still important for maintaining good health.

Another observation related to the effects of video games on the body is their potential impact on

physical fitness. While gaming itself is often seen as a passive activity, there are now video games

available that incorporate physical movement, such as virtual reality games or motion-controlled games.

These types of games can encourage players to engage in physical activity and can even serve as a fun

alternative to traditional exercise routines. However, it is important to note that these games should not

replace regular exercise as they may not provide the same level of cardiovascular or strength training

benefits. In addition to the physical and cognitive benefits of video games, there are also social benefits.

For example, video games can be a valuable tool for teaching people what the right decisions might be.

Noah, who is now 15, says that games helped him discover that he should try to resolve things peacefully

similarly, Rivera said that video games have broadened his interests and improved his mental agility.

Without a doubt, they have benefited him.

There is a debate on whether violent video games can have negative effects, particularly on children

and adolescents. Some researchers, such as Nicoll and Kieffer, have conducted studies suggesting that

exposure to violent video games can lead to aggressive behavior both in the short-term and long-term. For
instance, one study found that participants who played a violent game for less than 10 minutes rated

themselves as having aggressive traits and actions shortly after playing. This highlights the potential

impact that the content and context of video games can have on behavior. However, it's important to note

that not all games have the same impact, and further research is needed to understand the complexities of

this issue. While some studies have suggested a link between violent video games and aggressive

behavior in children, others have found no such correlation. For example, Ferguson's research consistently

found that violent video games do not contribute to aggression in kids. Similarly, some gamers like Rivera

have reported that video games have broadened their interests and improved their mental agility.

Recent research has uncovered unexpected benefits of video games. Bavelier, a neuroscientist who

studies video games at the University of Geneva and the University of Rochester, has been exploring how

video games can be used to improve society. According to her, video games have "really interesting

positive effects" and are here to stay. Therefore, it is important to understand how to make the most of

them.

Moreover, since children are occupied with playing video games, they do not have time to bully

others. To conclude, video games can have a positive impact on children's physical and mental health,

cognitive abilities, and decision-making skills. While concerns about violent video games and their effects

on children still exist, research suggests that the benefits outweigh the risks. Thus, parents should be

aware of the potential benefits of video games and encourage their children to play them in moderation.

By doing so, they can help their children develop essential cognitive, physical, and social skills that will

benefit them throughout their lives. Video games can also be used to teach valuable life lessons, such as

the importance of teamwork and communication. Furthermore, video games can provide children with a

safe and enjoyable way to express themselves.