When non-gamers think of gamers most of the time they’ll see a couch potato who could be doing something more productive. But there are real-world applications of gaming that both children and adults can benefit from since they develop problem-solving skills, relieve stress and stimulate the brain.
The debate on how video games affect people has been going on for years and many still believe they cause mental and physical issues. Fortunately, more and more studies are being done to get to the bottom of this debate.
5 benefits of playing your favourite PC or console game
Improves manual dexterity
Controller-based games can be great for your hands. In one study, researchers found that surgeons that played video games were able to perform advanced procedures faster and made 37% fewer errors than those who didn’t. Special video games have also been used to help stroke victims regain control of their hands and wrists.
Gamers may have better social skills
The stereotype of gamers being shy is not what the average gamer actually looks like. Historic research found that children who played video games were likely to have better social skills, perform better in school and make better relationships with other students.
Increased grey matter in the brain
Gaming is essentially a workout for your brain disguised as fun. Some studies show that playing video games regularly may boost brain connectivity and grey matter. Grey matter is paired with muscle control, spatial navigation, perception and memories.
Mental health benefits
Some studies show gaming can make for better heart rhythms and boost mood which is a sign they can alleviate stress. This is backed up by their use in therapy for over a decade.
Improved vision
As long as you don’t stare at the screen for 10 hours a day and sit with your nose pressed against it; playing video games can improve your vision. In one study, 10 students who weren’t gamers trained for around 30 hours on first-person shooters and they were tested against 10 other non-gamers. The students who played the video games were able to pick out objects in smaller cramped spaces than those who didn’t. This is because in the game those objects could’ve been important.
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