To play the game or not, that's the question.
The growing popularity of gaming and its impact on young generations has caused concern among many members of society. Let's evaluate the pros and cons of gaming and how it impacts the social, physical, emotional, and mental well-being of gamers around the world.
Games are a platform for online communication and socialization.
“Our society is suffering from an epidemic of loneliness, and gaming can be a way to connect with others.” Harvard Health Publishing. Gaming has helped me stay connected with friends during school holidays, including during the pandemic.
Conversely, excessive gaming can lead to avoidance of social interactions, which can impact gamers' social well-being.
The physical health effects of gaming include improved reaction time and coordination, but the risks of physical harm from gaming often outweigh the benefits.
The most notable physical downside of gaming is lack of exercise, which can lead to obesity. Excessive gaming can also cause wrist, neck, and elbow pain. Additionally, repetitive stress injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome can occur, causing pain and inflammation. Lack of sleep is a common negative effect of gaming.
One of the most important benefits of games is the opportunity to improve problem-solving skills and apply creativity and imagination. Problem solving is a major aspect of almost all online team-based video games. Games like Minecraft, Terraria, and the Sims foster imagination and individuality to create unique and extraordinary worlds. In the age of screens and devices, video games can leverage technology to encourage creative thinking and problem-solving through fun scenarios.
Conversely, negative online interactions such as cyberbullying are a very real problem. It's important for parents and gamers to be mindful of the risks of online interactions and take precautions to ensure a safe online experience.
To play the game or not, that's the question. The answer depends on your priorities.
As mentioned above, participating in the online world carries inherent risks. Excessive gaming has many potential downsides – physical, mental, social and emotional – and it is important for those who wish to participate in the online gaming world to be aware of and minimize these. is.
The word “excess” is important. In moderation, video games can provide players with an incredibly enjoyable experience. Gaming brings together millions of people around the world and continues to help gamers develop friendships. Many games challenge players' critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and stimulate creativity and individuality.
It's okay if the game isn't for you, or if the potential downsides outweigh the potential upsides. Remember that the game world is flexible and customizable. It doesn't matter what your gaming experience is. If you don't care about the social aspect of gaming and prefer a solitary experience, there are countless single-player games you can enjoy.
I've worked in both areas of gaming. I ended up playing video games so much that I crossed the line when I should have been working on homework, sleeping, and spending time with family and friends. I also experienced a life without games, especially after going to university, and wanted to relax and spend my free time playing video games with my friends.
Gaming should be done in free time and should not interfere with other aspects of life. Learning how to balance the enjoyable experience of gaming with other priorities will help you maximize the fun and relaxing opportunities that gaming provides while minimizing the potential effects of excessive gaming habits. I can.
Moderation and balance are key. If gaming consumes your life and leads to inactivity and avoidance of social interaction, it is not beneficial. But if games offer you the opportunity to enjoy your free time in a fun and relaxing environment, as I often do, then games are a great choice for you.
Jacob Freshley is an opinion writer. To contact him, [email protected].
