The media specifically targets video games when talking about tragic events, including massive shootings like those of Columbine and other tragedies involving innocent lives. Often when video games are portrayed in the media, journalists focus on the negative effects of video games, rather than highlighting any positive benefits that video games may have. This demonstrates media bias against video games. The media suggest that video games bring out the worst in people, rather than suggesting that aggressive people or those prone to violence are naturally drawn to violent video games, or suggesting that violence may be influenced by other factors including films. This paper will analyze the influence of video games, to provide a more objective review of video games, and demonstrate the potential benefit video games may have on users psyche.
Video games have been shown to provide educational benefits. In a study conducted by Griffiths (2002), video games were shown to have positive effects when used to address specific skills or to teach specific skills. Griffiths (2002) goes on to point out that video games are often presented in a negative light, highlighted as instruments for promoting addiction and aggressiveness. However, the researcher also notes that there is empirical evidence that consistently demonstrates that playing computer games improves hand to eye coordination, and can raise the self-esteem of players. The challenges presented in video games can also provide educational potential when used properly. Research suggests that video games can be a tool for assisting children in setting goals, for providing feedback for students, and for use in creating positive behavioral changes (Griffiths, 2002). Video games allow individuals to measure performance, and enable teachers or other adults the possibility of creating a fun and stimulating environment for players (Griffiths, 2002). In addition, video games may be used to create simulations of events, and for participants to learn IT skills (Griffiths, 2002). Other tools video games may be used for include increasing math skills, reading skills, and social skills (Griffiths, 2002).
According to the American Psychological Association, video games may also provide numerous health benefits (Shapiro, 2013). A research study conducted on the benefits of playing video games, supported by the APA, recently concluded that video games must be looked at with greater perspective; it is important to realize that although some games are aggressive, there are also many positive impacts that video games offer. There are cognitive, motivational, social and emotional impacts that are very positive that video games offer, all of which promote positive psychological health (Shapiro, 2013). The APA goes on to suggest that individuals that shoot well in video games are more likely to have greater attention spans, and are more likely to do well in visual processing tasks, as well as do better in tasks requiring visual processing skills; in addition, the researchers suggest that individuals playing advanced video games may be better at problem solving, which could prove beneficial in a variety of circumstances (Shapiro, 2013). Still others suggest that video games are not addictive, but rather motivating, suggesting that video games provide immediate feedback to users, particularly when they set goals to get to the next level, or to achieve a certain task within a video game (Shapiro, 2013). As such, simply by changing one’s perspective of video games, it is easy to understand why video games are motivating, and why individuals are connected to using video games as a means of receiving instantaneous positive feedback. Video games also enable individuals to “elicit strong emotions” according to the APA, whether they are good or bad, which teaches the players to control their emotions, and work on demonstrating emotions in a regulated manner, particularly when in a social setting (Shapiro, 2013).
Even seniors are benefiting from the use of computer simulations and video gaming and programs. Recent reports by CBS News (2013) suggest that seniors are using more simulations and video games to help improve memory skills, and to improve balance. Since walking requires attention and focus, many therapists are using computer games and video games to help seniors optimize brain functioning. Still another research study published in American Psychologist supports the idea that even playing violent shooter games can improve certain skills, including spatial navigation, memory skills, individual’s perception and other related cognitive ability (News Staff, 2013). This suggests that professionals may be able to use video games in new and interesting ways. Some video games do not have the same effects according to the same study, including some role-playing and puzzle games (News Staff, 2013).
Research suggests that video games may not be the culprit in violent and aggressive behaviors, despite past thinking. In fact, new studies are developing that demonstrate that even violent and aggressive games may actual have a role in improving valuable skills among users. These include improving spatial navigation, problem solving skills, cognition, and memory. Not all video games are alike however. Some of the more benign video games do not offer these benefits. Still, it is up to families to determine what video games they will allow their children to use. Strategic video games may offer many of the same benefits. Educators may be looking at video games in a new light, using video games as tools for students to develop math skills, memory skills, reading, and problem solving skills in the future. Perhaps the media will examine their coverage of video games, and find a new avenue for exploring violence and aggression in the future.
- Griffiths, M. (2002). The educational benefits of video games. Education and Health. 20(3):
Retrieved November 30, 2013 from: http://dh101.humanities.ucla.edu/DH101Fall12Lab4/archive/files/6070f0882cc89baa5a12992aaea56028.pdf - News Staff. (2013). Video Games Provide Learning, Health and Social Benefits, Review Finds.
Scientific Blogging. Retrieved November 30, 2013 from: http://www.science20.com/news_articles/video_games_provide_learning_health_and_social_benefits_review_finds-125179 - Shapiro, J. (2013). 4 Reasons Video Games Are Good for Your Health According to American
Psychological Association. Retrieved November 30, 2013 from: http://www.forbes.com/sites/jordanshapiro/2013/11/27/4-reasons-video-games-are-good-for-your-health-according-to-american-psychological-association/ - “Study: Computer Games Give Seniors Balance Benefits.” CBS News. Retrieved November 30,
2013 from: http://www.ozarksfirst.com/story/study-computer-games-give-seniors-balance-benefits/d/story/R9j6He2Uxk-hcA_uV6e4ZA
