Video GamesThe Unexpected Benefits of Video Games
Since the first Atari system made its way into the hands of adolescents, parents have been complaining that videos games are nothing but time wasters. However, a recent study done at the University of Rochester reports that video games The research wing of the Brain and Cognitive Sciences Center at the University of Rochester is considered one of the best in the country for its long history of studying unique elements of brain function. Their 2003 study, done on the potential benefits of the regular use of video games systems, was no exception to their sterling reputation. Researchers contrasted the brain function of individuals who played high action video games, such as Metal Gear: Solid or Goldeneye 007, with individuals who rarely or never played video games.
The results of the study showed that regular video game users were able to intake, retain, and understand visual information better and faster than non-players. Furthermore, the study showed that regular use of video game systems improved overall vision, particularly peripheral vision. Other studies done over the past twenty years have also praised the mental benefits of using video games consoles, reporting that they help improve physical dexterity, hand and eye coordination, and rapid response capability. It is also important to note that while the physical benefits of the newest interactive video game systems, like the Wii, have already been studied; their positive impact on brain function has yet to be officially published. However, you can bet that when studies do begin to emerge on this aspect of video games that it will be just as complimentary, if not more, than those studies already done.
The bottom line: playing several hours a week of Guitar Hero or Grand Theft Auto is more than just a way to unwind, it is a way to stimulate brain function and develop your learning and interpretation capacities. What’s even better is that the research doesn’t indicate that any video games consoles are better than another, meaning whatever you have access to – be it a Wii, Play Station, or Xbox – will be equally able to provide benefits. Looks like all those nagging mothers out there may need to eat their words and apologize to every gamer out there for doubting the worth of video games. Now you have the scientific facts to prove something you probably knew all along: playing video games is a good use of your time. So the next time someone gets on your case for playing too much Super Mario Brothers or Legend of Zelda, tell them you aren’t just playing a game, you are improving your cognitive and visual functioning!
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Adults who play a lot of action video games may be improving their eyesight, U.S. researchers say. "We've found that action video games train the brain to process the existing visual information more efficiently, and the improvements last for months after game play stopped.”
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don’t rot your brain like your mother always said they would. In fact, the study results indicate that they may be doing the exact opposite…
