Video games are hated by many and adored by many more. They offer cognitive, social, and physical benefits, yet despite these advantages, many are concerned about addiction.

From improving children’s visuospatial skills to enhancing teamwork and providing stress relief, video games have an enormous impact on those who play them. Students, teachers, and psychologists have all observed their positive effects, contradicting the myth that these games are entirely harmful.

“Games challenge players to think critically, strategize, and make quick decisions, all of which can translate to cognitive growth,” Bradford Stretton, teacher at TCS, said. 

Many students, such as Juanita Lopez, credit video games for helping them develop problem-solving skills, which are acquired through role-playing and strategy-based games. Gaming can even enhance children’s logical reasoning and strategic thinking, skills that are used in everyday life.

“I play role-playing games and strategy games the most. I like them because they allow me to think critically, plan, and make decisions that have meaningful consequences,” Juanita Lopez, senior, said.

Gaming has also been shown to strengthen social bonds and teamwork. Studies conducted at Brigham Young University indicate that teams who play video games together perform better in group activities compared to those who do not.

“We often team up in multiplayer games, which has strengthened our teamwork and communication,” Lopez said. 

Teachers have also observed the positive effects of gaming in enhancing students’ cognitive skills. Additionally, the use of educational games like Kahoot has increased student engagement and made learning more interactive.

“I’ve used games like Kahoot for quizzes. They make learning interactive and keep students engaged,” Stretton said. 

Psychologists highlight the mental health benefits of gaming, particularly in reducing stress and anxiety. These games provide a sense of accomplishment and relaxation, which can help ease the thoughts of those experiencing stress or anxiety.

“Yes, they provide a sense of accomplishment and distraction from stressors, making them effective for anxiety management,” Camila Garcia, Psychologist, said.

Despite these benefits, it is important to acknowledge that video games should be used in moderation. By maintaining balance, students can reap the advantages of gaming while minimizing risks, ensuring that it remains both productive and enjoyable.

“Gaming has many benefits, but unchecked play can lead to addiction. Setting limits and monitoring content is crucial.” Garcia said.