Video games and health: how gaming experiences affect our well-being

by time news

2024-07-31 10:20:02

Have you ever wondered why you feel so excited when you complete a mission in a video game or why the nights just fly by while playing? These experiences are not accidents and can affect your well-being.

Last update: July 31, 2024

The relationship between video games and health is often overlooked, but it is very strong. Him reward It is not only a source of entertainment; It also has a huge impact on our overall well-being.

From increasing our motivation and reducing stress, to leading us to a sedentary lifestyle or addiction, gaming machines are designed to capture our attention and can have different effects on our daily lives.

What are the interactive devices of video games and how do they influence public health?

Imagine any afternoon when you decide to relax and play your favorite video game. Maybe you will venture into epic quests The Witcher or enjoy a creative time Minecraft. What you may not know is that, while playing, Your overall well-being is affected by the interactive mechanics of these games.

Essentially, interactive devices are the foundations that define the video game experience and influence the players’ thoughts, emotions, and attitudes while playing. In addition, they outline the actions that can be taken, how the challenges develop and how progress is rewarded.

Each video game has different ways in which players can interact. According to CyberGhost VPNamong the main interaction patterns the following stand out:

1. Rewards and incentives

Reward mechanisms, such as points, special items, or competitions in video games, activate dopamine systems in the brain, creating a feeling of satisfaction and achievement. This can improve mood and motivation, but it can also lead to depression develop an addiction to this type of sin gratification.

According to a study published in Frontiers in Human NeuroscienceSome people enjoy video games more because their brains respond strongly to the rewards they receive, which motivates them to continue playing.

The response to games is what keeps players busy for hours, but it can lead to addictive behaviors and affect their balance and general well-being.

2. Progress and goals

The progression mechanic, which allows players to progress and unlock new skills or levels, provides a sense of purpose and direction.

This improvement can improve self-esteem and sense of accomplishment. However, it is still hard worry and stress if players feel they are not progressing as quickly as they would like.

3. Cooperation and social relations

Video games that encourage cooperation and teamwork can improve social skills and provide a sense of community and belonging. Despite this, peer pressure and group changes can lead to interpersonal conflicts and social stress.

According to an investigation Computers in Human Behavior, playing video games can help reduce stress, both in competitive and cooperative situations. But it is noteworthy that players in cooperative mode tend to rate their fellow players higher compared to those in competitive mode.



4. Competition and challenge

Competitive engines present challenges and the opportunity to measure skills against other players. This can be fun and increase personal improvement, although it can also increase anxiety and pressure to win in some scenarios.

However, when it comes to video games and health, research through Game for Health Journal demonstrated that easy-to-use virtual games that can be played for short periods of time have the potential to help improve people’s mental health. This is because of that They can reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress and low mood.

5. Discovery and creativity

Game capabilities that allow exploration and creativity, as in games like sandboxwhich gives players a high degree of freedom to create and modify the game environment as they wish, can encourage innovative thinking and provide an outlet for personal expression.

According to an investigation by American psychologist, One of the cognitive benefits of playing video games (regardless of whether they are violent or not) is to help awaken creativity. This allows people to have a great ability to solve problems and face challenges in innovative ways.



6. Reporting and decision making

Games with strong information and decision-making options can engage players emotionally. This helps them develop empathy and problem solving skills. However, difficult decisions can cause emotional stress and moral dilemmas.

The relationship between video games and health is complex and multifaceted

Video games are more than just a source of entertainment. They can boost creativity and reduce stress and anxiety, although they can also cause addiction and affect mental health. Despite this, used with moderation and caution, they can be a valuable tool for general well-being.

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