As technology advances, so do video games. This has meant an increase in the number of people who play them and the time invested in it, being one of the most popular pastimes in the world.
For a long time, video games were associated with negative issues such as the increase in violence and social withdrawal. However, in the light of new research, a much more favorable outlook for this type of entertainment has been glimpsed. In this article we talk about the relationship between psychology and video games, reviewing the advantages and disadvantages of playing video games for mental health.
Video games and mental health: what relationship do they have?
- The relationship between video games and mental health is a topic that occupies a large number of experts. And it is that it is a subject that cannot be ignored as it is one of the most common pastimes in the entire world.
- When talking about these two issues, they are usually linked from a negative aspect, understanding all the damage that their addiction generates. But it is precisely there where the problem lies, when it becomes an addiction, not in the case of a video game problem per se.
- Authors such as Colzato, Van den Wildenberg, Zmigrod and Hommel (2012) have indicated that video games are a very useful tool to improve certain cognitive processes, such as working memory, essential for the optimal performance of memory. everyday life of any person.
- In addition, the use of video games improves cognitive flexibility, which helps to make better decisions and adapt more assertively to everyday situations. Next we are going to take a better look at the benefits and disadvantages of playing video games, pay attention!
Benefits of playing video games that you should know
There are several investigations that have shed light on the positive aspects of the use of video games. And it is that it is an excellent option to enhance some of the most important mental processes. Beyond mere fun, video games involve positive aspects such as:
Increased attention
The use of video games requires the player to pay full attention in order to win (regardless of the game). But not only one type of attention is required, since video games need to make use of general and selective attention at the same time.
Maximum concentration is required, which implies sustained attention for long periods, in which carrying out different activities requires divided attention, complex processes to achieve in other activities.
Improved response speed
The cognitive aspects are the ones that benefit the most from the use of video games, since through practice the speed and responsiveness are increased by having to, to give an example, change strategy at a certain moment.
Increased ability to solve problems
Problem solving is one of the aspects that has benefited the most from video games, since quick and accurate decision-making is required in order to win. Taken to other aspects of life, this increase can bring great benefits to those who regularly play video games.
Memory improvement
Memory processes have been increased in people who frequently use video games. There seems to be a correlation between playing time and an increase in the amount of information that memory can store and an improvement in the ability to access it.
Improvement of visual-spatial skills
Perceptual and information processing processes improve exponentially with video games, through the ability to recognize the different stimuli presented and react based on them.
It has even been possible to observe through scanners that the hippocampus increases in size when playing. This part of the brain is associated with visual-spatial abilities.
Increased motivation
Motivation is one of the aspects that is most impacted by video games, since they offer a very attractive incentive for many to set goals and meet the objectives necessary to achieve them.
Improvement of self-regulation
Being able to play assertively requires an arduous process of emotional regulation and control of various external variables in order to win. This is one of the most prominent pros of this type of game.
Therapeutic use
In recent times, video games have become a therapeutic tool that can be used in a didactic way to learn certain skills. In addition, they turn out to be ideal for rest and leisure, excellent for combating stress.
Disadvantages of playing video games for mental health
But not everything is rosy when it comes to video games, since their use also implies some cons, such as:
They favor isolation
The use of video games can have a negative impact on people’s interest and ability to interact socially with others, this being one of the factors that causes the greatest concern for many parents regarding their children.
Can negatively impact care
It is paradoxical that attention is mentioned as one of the pros and now as a con. But it is that in some cases, video games absorb so much the attention of those who play them that they come to neglect the world around them, focusing their attention completely on the screens.
They influence the values
This is not necessarily a negative aspect as it directly depends on the type of game. But many of these video games convey negative values related to violence that, if not properly managed (mainly in the case of children and young people), can negatively affect their behavior.
Neglect activities
Focusing so much time on playing can lead to a systematic neglect of other activities, which can have very bad consequences. It’s easy to spend hours playing without even being aware of it, and this can be a real problem.
They can be addictive
Some titles more than others can become highly addictive, presenting the same symptoms that can be seen in other types of addictions. This affects the entire life of the person who suffers from it and negatively impacts their relatives, work, study, social relationships, etc.
When the addiction to video games is present
- Video games in general terms are not usually a problem for mental health. The annoyance occurs at the moment when these are no longer mere fun, but become a prevailing need, becoming an addiction.
- When the addiction is present, a compulsive need to play is felt that dominates all thoughts. It is something that cannot be controlled and that dominates the life of those who suffer from it. If you know someone who may be experiencing problems related to video game addiction, we recommend seeking professional help.