According to latest research studies, playing video games is considered a social activity with social benefits which boosts learning, health and social skills. People of all genders, ages and ethnicities play all types of games, in cooperation with many players working together to achieve a collective goal through multi-player online games improving creativity, problem-solving and multi-tasking abilities. But nevertheless, there is still the idea that they negatively impact the mental health of youths, encouraging violence and isolation. Many psychologists assert that there is a positive correlation between gaming and social competence. With the advent of the internet and the live-streaming platforms people can connect across continents overcoming the physical distance, socializing and creating a network of new friends.
Furthermore, it is also useful to consider the emotional benefits of video games: experiencing intense emotions while gaming can help youths to face difficult and frustrating situations in real life, learning valuable emotional lessons which can be applied to real-life scenarios.
It is important to remember and underline that video games are a good tool to create bonds with new friends, develop social, cognitive and emotional skills but can be also dangerous when played without moderation.
Written by Ylenia Azzaro - JUMP TEAM
