Posted: December 12th, 2022

To what extent do video games affect personal wellbeing?

To what extent do video games affect personal wellbeing?
Video games have become an increasingly popular form of entertainment over the past few decades. With the rise of smartphones and other portable devices, it has never been easier to access a wide variety of games. But as with any form of entertainment, there is debate about the potential effects of video games on personal wellbeing. In this paper, we will explore the extent to which video games can affect personal wellbeing and the factors that may influence this relationship.

One way in which video games can affect personal wellbeing is through their effects on mental health. Many studies have found that excessive video game use can lead to a range of mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, and social isolation. For example, a study published in the journal Psychological Science found that excessive video game use was associated with decreased overall wellbeing and increased risk of depression and anxiety (Ng et al., 2018).

The reason for this is that excessive video game use can lead to a range of negative consequences. For one, it can lead to social isolation, as people who spend a lot of time playing video games may spend less time interacting with others in real life. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation, which can contribute to poor mental health. Additionally, excessive video game use can also lead to reduced physical activity, which can have negative effects on physical health and wellbeing.

Furthermore, certain types of video games can also have negative effects on mental health. For example, studies have found that playing violent video games can lead to increased aggression and decreased empathy (Anderson & Bushman, 2001). This can lead to a range of negative consequences, including reduced social skills and increased risk of aggressive behavior.

However, it is important to note that not all video games are equally harmful. In fact, some research suggests that video games can have positive effects on personal wellbeing. For example, a study published in the journal Psychological Science found that playing video games can lead to improved cognitive skills, such as improved problem-solving abilities and increased creativity (Bavelier et al., 2012).

Additionally, playing video games can also have positive effects on social interactions. For example, many video games require players to work together in order to succeed, which can lead to improved communication and teamwork skills (Chiu & Tian, 2018). This can have positive effects on personal relationships and social interactions, which can contribute to overall wellbeing.

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