Stereotypes

I previously mentioned common stereotypes regarding video games (see http://ourdangerouselife.blogspot.com/2012/09/video-game-stereotypes.html), and I'd like to continue on that thread, perhaps focusing more on the positive aspects of gaming.

When I left off, I was mentioning how the "problem" varies in intensity depending on how much experience one has with video games. Those who've never played see little problem, unless they have someone close to them who plays; those who play just a little can see the addictive nature, and those who play heavily - 3+ hours per day - see no problem.

What non-gamers fail to understand is the games themselves. For instance, when my sister accused me of violent behavior as a child due to Warcraft, she had no idea what appeal video games could have. She still avoids video games like the plague because she sees no point to the games and has no enjoyment in them - even the social games. Non-gamers, like my sister, do not see the appeal, and thus cannot see the way that games can "suck you in." They tend to see games as some silly waste of time, and thus see no real benefit or danger unless they are close to someone who spends time playing instead of interacting with them. It then becomes something foreign and dangerous because it is misunderstood and threatening.

Games, like many things, can effect people differently depending on how susceptible they are to that particular addiction. The reason I worry so much about it is because I seem to be one of the more susceptible people towards these games. If I allow myself, I'll play for hours. My brothers, like most boys, have all played video games, but none have been "addicted." When I purchased the first Zelda Wii game, one told me that he was so jealous, but he knew that if he purchased it, he'd spend so much time on it that he'd lose his job. Now, most people would not get so sucked into a game that they would forsake such things, but the potential is there.

Those who I would consider addicted see no harm - much like any addiction. According to Wikipedia, "Classic hallmarks of addiction include: impaired control over substances/behavior, preoccupation with substance/behavior, continued use despite consequences, and denial." Those addicted cannot see the addiction because it has become something so important to them that it seemingly merits the attention they give to it.

Now, despite all of this, video games are NOT all bad. there are wonderful things with video games. Brandon Healy did a post regarding the positive outcomes of video games, such as cognitive development or the improvement of social skills. Although gaming receives such a terrible rap for addiction and taking away from home and family, there is plenty of research to support it instead. See his post, http://digitaltrailer.blogspot.com/2012/09/cognitive-benefits-of-video-games.html, for more details. I will also include some of his research in future posts.

Next time: how video games have helped me and others, despite the drawbacks. To view some of my sources, see my "sites regarding video games" page on the right.