Since the dawn of time video games have been an infatuation with the youth, and not surprisingly but controllers and hand held devices can be found in the palms of many adults. Well the dawn of time is a bit of a stretch, but since the coming of Pong, the video game frenzy spread through teens, and is still going strong. They allow people to take the role of someone else, and truly have an adventure or get the adrenaline rush they can’t in the real world. It is something fun to do for most teens. I personally believe video games are a great way to pass time. Now more than ever some may argue that the negative effects of video games are a growing concern. While this may be true in part, video games can have a rather positive effect to an extent.
A common stereotype is that video games isolate kids from their peers. In fact, video games bring people and friends together, even from all the way around the world. You can play and compete with others online from where ever they may reside. Snow storm and you need to find out who is better at Rock Band? Don't fret, you can still play and get your time to playfully taunt. As well many video games are multilayer which is great for when friends are over or even to do some sibling bonding. Video games don't cut you completely off from your social calendar, in fact it can even be a part of it. The important thing is to know when to put down that controller and perhaps pick up a text book.
Despite another common stereotype of wasting your brain cells away gaming, video games can be very helpful as well as super fun. Certain games exist that are educational, and helps stimulate the mind at any age. Games designed for young children contribute to a proper mental and physical development. It helps with hand eye coordination, and reaction times which are skills young children should be building. Games such as Brain Quest can help keep your mind finely tuned at any age. Math games are also quite common august the educational video games, but the spectrum is not limited there!
However, as to all good things, there is a limit. If gaming interrupts things like showering, eating, school work, social activities or any important event for a prolonged time there is a problem. While this may be a problem for some hardcore video game players, not all are guilty of neglect. So if you indent on buckling down for a 2 hour game of Sims 3, don’t forget you do have a life beyond the virtual world.
1 comment:
Sonya, I really like your take on this issue of video game use. In my opinion, you're completely right about stereotypes existing that video games create isolation and waste brain cells, and that these stereotypes, like many stereotypes, are not accurate. Not all games are "bad"! This really got me thinking. I haven't read many other people's responses to this topic as of yet, but I think that your response will be one of the most unique. (:
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