Effects of Video Games and Gaming Among the Young People

Games have become important parts of our lives. Children nowadays spend countless hours of playing video games. They also spend hours doing other activities such as exercising and taking part in physical activities. A recent study has indicated that children from an early age prefer playing video games over interacting with their parents or caregivers.

These studies also suggest that this preference for video games could have an impact on children’s self-pride and sense of achievement. For instance, a child who is frequently engaged in playing video games sports may develop a negative self-image because the engaged person considers himself to be unattractive. Further studies indicate that the engagement in competitive games may lead to increased chances of playing violent video games and watching more violent movies.

Another indication that there are harmful effects of video games and gaming among young people is that a large number of adolescents have admitted to engaging in Internet gaming and computer games. Many young people see computer games and online gaming not only as a leisure activity but as a form of escape from reality, boredom, anxiety, stress, and loneliness. The increasing engagement of youths in gaming and computer games may have serious implications for the emerging youth bulge in our society.