The Effects Of Video Games On Adolescents

Talking with your teenager about content and monitoring interactions are some of the tips to follow.

It is often thought that the effects of video games are negative in adolescents. It is nevertheless essential to identify if these perceptions are myths or if they are valid.

In this sense, and like other technologies, the important thing is the use that one makes of it. Variables such as age, duration of use, subjects covered by video games, even the characteristics of players – in this case adolescents – are relevant.

Adolescence and video games: a link to explore

Beyond the existence of a number of studies which have shown that certain video games can improve cognitive parameters as well as the ability to solve problems and process information,  other voices are rising to alert possible risks.

The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psichiatry  (AACAP  )  points out that:

Likewise, AACAP researchers say video games have become more sophisticated and realistic. “ Online games allow children and adolescents to play and interact with adults and unfamiliar players ”. This forces us to remain vigilant.

Certainly, some games have educational content. However, most of the most popular games do contain negative aspects:  violence against humans and animals, discrimination, the existence of gender violence and stereotypes that reinforce the persistence of certain negative stigmas.

Potential Effects of Video Games in Adolescents: Main Concerns

The concerns would be associated  with the effect produced on young people of excessive playing time  and the degree of assimilation into roles and characters. They would also present difficulties in controlling the playing time.

What are the negative effects of excessive playing time?

Although we cannot cover them all, it is good to know them:

• Less time to socialize with friends and family
• Lack of time for homework and hobbies
• Less exercise and more sedentary lifestyle with a risk of obesity

What can you do ?

• It is important that the family and the schools  promote a reasoned use of video games which fight against the harmful effects and which favors the appearance of its benefits.
• Talking to your teen about content and monitoring interactions are some of the tips to follow.
• Be sure to  define game time slots by monitoring their respect. This is another possible approach

Ana Ramos, in an interesting article in  Nos Pensées, points out the existence of different types of video games, such as platform games which:

The author also points out the existence of sports and non-sports simulation games, as well as –FPS– games in which we see “fights at a dizzying pace with martial arts or firearms”. Perhaps these are the ones that give video games a bad name. Some studies show that they promote violence in children.

In summary

Video games are not going to go away. That is why we are not suggesting their ban. Rather, we recommend monitoring which – in the form of support – guides adolescents towards a reasoned and safe use of technology.

We must eradicate the myths surrounding the existence of a negative link between adolescence and video games.

Consulting with other parents, teachers and health professionals around these topics is important. Indeed, we sometimes feel that we are lacking tools, and these can help us.