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MindGames
If you’re worried about the impact video and computer
game playing may have on your child, you’re not alone.
There are over 5,000 game titles available. Parents might
feel at a loss when it comes to getting unbiased information
about the possible effects of game playing on children.
Pros
Quality video/computer game playing can:
- Introduce children to technology.
- Boost self-discipline – games usually require following
directions.
- Provide practice in problem solving and logic.
- Increase fine motor and coordination skills.
- Provide occasion for adults and children to play together.
- Foster interest in information technology.
Cons
Over-involvement with video/computer game playing can:
- Foster social isolation; even good games are more often
played alone.
- Detract from the time children should spend on other
important activities like reading, playing with friends,
etc.
- Very popular games feature plots based on anti-social
themes such as violence, irresponsible sex, gender bias,
and aggression.
- Children play in an environment of super weapons, slaughter,
kicking, stabbing, and shooting.
- Women are often portrayed as weak or helpless characters.
- Feelings of mastery occur in a video world that is not
real. Playing violent games may contribute more to aggressive
behavior than passively watching television.
Did You Know
- When a child watches a TV program or a movie, they are
in the role of observer. When they play a video or computer
game, they are participants.
- A video game system purchased today is more powerful
than a Cray Supercomputer manufactured just twenty years
ago.
- Approximately 69% of American families own or rent video
and computer games.
- Children ages 8-12 are the most frequent players of
video and computer games.
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