Many parents, guardians, and educators are concerned that the advancement of gaming is keeping children from going outside. Some children literally spent hours in front of a mobile device, computer screen, or television to play the latest games. Modern youth grow up using advanced technology, and many may find it difficult to be separated from it for too long. Although the worlds of gaming are imaginary, extensive use has very real effects on minor players. Consider why children are choosing games over outdoor fun with friends and family.
More Complex and Capable Systems
As technology advances, it is easier than ever to develop more intricate games to enthrall young users. Kids can gain access to literally free computer gaming software to simulate any area of life that they may be interested in. Many enjoy spending more time in simulated worlds because they have become more realistic looking and immersive. Games also give children a sense of control that he or she would not have in regular life with their peers.
Social Online Instead of Offline
Many children are choosing to be more social online and may spend the majority of their time doing so. The creation and promotion of Massive Multiplayer Online Role Playing Games (MMORPGs) has attracted more kids computer gaming and mobile app gaming experiences. For those who spend a ton of hours playing some sort of technology based game indoors, it becomes a preference over recreation with other children outdoors. While playing a game online with other gamers in a virtual world such as an online casino, they are more likely to interact with a persona instead of the real individuals. One may also develop and identity associated with their characters online, of prefer it over who they actually are.
Psychology Today suggests that gamers feel competent during gameplay, and they have the chance to do whatever they want to solve problems with other kids they relate to. Online games also satisfy some other social needs in children, such as the competitive spirit and the need for social interaction. With the assistance of the internet, individuals are able to collaborate online on various gaming platforms without ever meeting in person. As a result, many of these children may develop less social skills that are required for other areas of life. Limiting the amount of screen time that children have is beneficial for their mental, social, emotional, and academic growth. Exercise and study are important, so playing outdoors and studying are crucial for development.
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Smartphone Addiction and Gaming
The excitement that children feel when playing games can be compared to the excitement of adults when playing a fun online casino game that keeps them hooked, thanks to the rewards and bonuses that are often offered to the players. The only difference is that, since it is a well known fact that gambling can be addictive, responsible casinos always warn their users.
Without a doubt, the commitment to game over going outside didn't happen by chance. It is the predisposition of individuals to always have a smartphone in hand that has helped to create the culture. The more useful interesting our phones are, the more likely we are to have them in hand for the next fun activity or tidbit of information. MarketWatch reports that a number of game players may suffer from addiction, and children are especially vulnerable. Playing an exciting app or other game on a mobile device can hold the attention of children hostage for hours a day.
A Preference For The Interactive PC World
The greater the amount of time that kids play gaming indoors and online, the more likely they are to develop a preference for gaming environments. Building customized gaming PCs – click here for tips and tricks to build your own gaming PC – have helped gamers reach higher score, gain an eminent badge, or earn notoriety among other gamers for achievement. When gaming is wrapped in a cloak of entertainment it can provide strong reinforcement. Individuals who tend to perform better in virtual worlds are less are more likely to prefer gaming over everyday life.
More Gaming, Less Exercise
Playtime outdoors is an excellent time for kids to stretch their muscles, stay active, build coordination and reflexes, and get some much-needed fresh air. However, kids that don't go outside very often will not receive the benefits of physical activity. Children who get less physical exercise for any reason are more likely to gain weight and become obese. Science Daily reports that child gamers are at a higher risk of obesity, cardiovascular disease, and sleep insomnia because they tend to eat more while gaming. Without a doubt, obesity is an epidemic in America with millions of children suffering from the symptoms. Helping children to grow into balanced adults is essential so that they are healthy and happy human beings says gamingrig.com.
Building Healthier Habits
Reversing the curse of addictive gaming in the lives of children can be as simple as scheduling more time outdoors. Limiting the amount of time that children are allowed to play games during the day can help tremendously in expanding their interests. Turning off the laptop or smartphone or setting aside mobile devices after a certain time of day is also advised to limit exposure. Getting active and playing games outside can also awaken a sense of adventure in your child. Some cool outdoor activities include nature exploration, hiking, camping, treasure hunt, swimming, and cycling.
Addictive gaming combined with online access and social interaction with others has notable impacts on child development, and this includes withdrawal from outdoor activities. However, helping your children get more exercise and less gaming time has positive effects. With many generations of children growing more susceptible to gaming, is important to help kids and their friends to develop healthy habits that include playtime without technology and time outdoors. Limiting the amount of screen time that children have is beneficial for their mental, social, emotional, and academic growth. The time once set aside for gaming can be used for more productive activities that provide joy and satisfaction.
References:
Eyal, Nyir. (19 Aug 2018). Kids’ Gaming Obsession Isn’t Really About the Games. Psychology Today. Sussex Publishers LLC. Retrieved From:https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/automatic-you/201808/kids-gaming-obsession-isn-t-really-about-the-games
Passy, Jacob.(18 June 2018). WHO classifies video-game addiction as a disease—here’s how to prevent it. MarketWatch Inc. Retrieved From:
https://www.marketwatch.com/story/video-game-addiction-could-soon-be-classified-as-a-mental-health-disorder-can-you-prevent-it-2017-12-27
McMaster University. (2016, May 9). Videogame addiction leads to sleep loss, obesity, and cardiovascular risk in some gamers. ScienceDaily. Retrieved from :www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/05/160509150010.htm