The rise of technology and the internet has given birth to online gaming. In this context, it is important to examine the balance between the positives and negatives of online gaming and the potential benefits of video games beyond entertainment.
Having said that, the internet has also been a place for online casinos in South Africa to thrive. As youth is becoming increasingly technologically savvy, it’s important to teach them the skills to find online content which is age appropriate. Remember, you can gamble online in South Africa only if you’re 18 or older.
So, with that disclaimer out of the way, let’s dive deep into the world of video games and the impact of online gaming on South African youth.
Screen Time: The Balance between Positives and Negatives
In this digital age, screen time has become a norm and a way of life for many, especially the youth. It’s not uncommon to see children glued to screens, be it for educational or recreational purposes. While the ‘square eyes’ myth has been debunked, there are still some negative impacts associated with excessive screen time. However, the benefits far outweigh the negatives.
Technology has revolutionized the way we learn and interact with the world, and screen time has played a significant role in that. From improved motor skills to faster and more efficient learning, the positives of screen time cannot be ignored. But like everything in life, balance is key. We need to strike a balance between screen time and other activities of South African youth to ensure that we reap the benefits without succumbing to the negatives.
Beyond Entertainment: How Video Games Improve Cognitive Functions
Video games have often been associated with negative effects on mental health and social behavior. However, recent studies suggest otherwise. According to research, video gaming can improve cognitive functions such as attention, visual processing, memory, reasoning, and perception. Contrary to popular belief, violent games can even enhance a player’s capability of thinking in different dimensions, similar to some academic courses. The research sheds light on the potential positive effects of gaming beyond just entertainment.
Video Games: Training Ground for Spatial Skills and Career Success
Gone are the days when video games were solely seen as a source of entertainment. Recent research has shown that video games can train teens in spatial, visual, and hand-eye coordination skills, particularly in shooter games. These skills are critical for success in STEM fields.
The brain processes a lot of data when playing video games, and players must coordinate with their hands to carry out the necessary actions. These findings have significant implications for education and career development. Video games could be used as a tool for enhancing spatial skills in students, potentially leading to future success in STEM fields.
Playing Games: A Mood-Boosting Strategy for Coping with Failures
When it comes to video games, it’s not all about skill-building and cognitive development. Some games can have a profound impact on our emotional well-being. Games like Angry Birds and Bejewelled II are simple yet effective in bringing instant happiness and relaxation. This is called a “fundamental emotional benefit” that kids can derive from video games.
Moreover, these games can teach young people how to cope with failures, a valuable life skill that’s applicable in all areas of life. Instead of feeling discouraged by setbacks, young South African gamers learn to dust themselves off and keep trying until they succeed.
Building Resilience and Growth Mindset through Video Games
One of the fascinating ways in which video games can benefit young South African people is by promoting the theory of incremental intelligence. When teens are encouraged and praised for their efforts in working on a puzzle or game, they develop the belief that intelligence is not fixed but can be improved with effort and time. This idea of progressive knowledge, also known as a growth mindset, can be a powerful tool for building resilience and self-esteem in children.
This safe and engaging environment for trial and error helps young people to develop the skills of perseverance and problem-solving while also reinforcing the idea that intelligence is not a fixed trait but a flexible one that can be developed over time. We can leverage the power of video games to instill a growth mindset in our kids, helping them to become more confident, resilient, and successful in all areas of life.
