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The bright colors and enticing sounds we witness in mobile games beg for our attention. Once you give in and initiate the gameplay, your chances of being caught in an endless gaming spiral go up a notch. But what are the pros and cons of playing games on mobile phones?
Unlike the traditional mindset of games being hazardous for health, there is a whole new chapter narrated in the current era. Scientists and psychologists are countering the argument that games are harmful. In fact, they present a whole bunch of convincing findings to prove the positive impacts of gaming.
Research by the University of Oxford, for instance, found that the gamers seemingly perceived time spent playing games as their happiest time. Even though the typical perceptions associated with gaming are undergoing radical changes, it is vital to examine both sides to decide who is right. Considering how most video games and gambling variations are now available on phones, through phone-friendly game loaders ordedicated mobile casino appsit is integral to explore the medium’s impact.
Below, I have listed the good and bad effects of playing video games on mobile phones.
The bright side – positive effects of playing video games on mobile phones
Video games allow you to kill the mental fuzz and give your brain a much-needed refresh. Many games require abstract ideas and high-level thinking to beat the high scores. These skills are sometimes not even included in the academic boundaries. The main benefits of playing video games are as follows.
Improves mood
On days when you feel crabby and in despair, a good video gaming session on the mobile phone could cheer you up. The feeling of victory that you have finally figured out in a complex mobile game level is incomparable. It usually tags along with the games where the users have to find their way around and demolish the enemies. A game like Clash Royale or Crown Towers can bring exciting visuals and fantastic mechanics.
If you think about winning in a brick-and-mortar casino in the places where this is allowed, there is quite a thrill to the risk of playing and, of course, there is euphoria when you actually win. With online casinos like Casino Zodiac, this is very similar, except that you don’t need to first travel there, but can play remotely as well.
As you are in a virtual world, you get a break from the monotony. This is especially helpful to keep anxiety at bay and keep your emotions stable. If a person can feel happier by playing a mobile game, psychologists will definitely recommend these cheap yet fun therapies.
Improves thinking skills
Games, especially the action genre, require the players to make split-second decisions. As per the researchers at the University of Rochester, games simulating stressful events such as battle or action games could serve as a training tool for real-world situations. These games can help to train surgeons and army personnel, according to this study. Daphne Bavelier, a cognitive scientist who led this study, believes that action games compel players to make more decisions per unit of time.
Even games involving puzzles or bingo have brought a significant uplift in the mental activity of the players. Tasks such as keeping track of various bingo cards and focusing on the numbers called out are excellent for mental stimulation. Perhaps, this is why people are now using games to increase the bottom line in their business.
Enhances situational awareness
Situational awareness is imperative in some professions, and it dramatically helps out in our day-to-day lives. Defense News reported that the army includes video games to train soldiers and improve their situational awareness during combat. Apart from the action games, many strategic games like Chess or Backgammon require the players to stay aware of the situational modifications.
Cures the aging problem
Every one of us is aging. Even if you haven’t hit your thirties yet, all those sleepless and stressful nights contribute to your mental aging. There is a psychological pattern in our brain called the Triumph circuit. It rewards engagement. The wiring in our brain makes us feel good when we overcome challenges. Video games can hack this circuit. It presents us with a challenge, and when we overcome those, it brings a feeling of satisfaction. This positive emotion could help to counter stressful elements.
The dark side – adverse effects of playing video games on mobile phones
New games are popping up in digital stores every other day. Yet, we can’t succumb to the increasing number by overlooking the dark side of video games. It has been proven, time and again, that playing video games on mobile phones come with several adverse effects. Let’s scan a few of those.
Nurtures aggression and violence
Children who play violent video games have an aggressive attitude (Anderson & Bushman, 2001). Moreover, Dmitri A. Christakis of the Seattle Children’s Research Institute states that those kids who watch vast amounts of simulated violence could eventually become immune to it. He adds that such people are more prone to harm themselves or lack empathy. The American Psychology Association (APA) also found a consistent correlation between violent video play and criminal violence.
Higher chances of addiction
Kids and adults can become highly hooked to playing video games. In June 2018, the World Health Organization declared gaming addiction to be a mental health disorder. A study by the Minneapolis-based National Institute for Media and the Family discovered that video games could make kids addict. In turn, this leads to a high level of depression and anxiety.
Such kids also experience social phobia. Their school performance hits rock-bottom, and they may feel different from their peers. Neuroimaging research suggests that heavy use of particular video games can cause drastic brain changes.
Lack of security
Installing a video game with raving reviews may often lead us into dismal. There were several cases in the past where games infiltrated the users’ data and exploited it. When handing mobile phones to kids, parents and teachers need to watch their downloads.Malicious entities have devised stellar ways to penetrate users’ private data. One must stay vigilant when treading in the virtual landscape.
Parting notes
Keep in mind – there is a fine line between playing a game after a long, hard day of work and staying stuck to the mobile screen to avoid worldly problems. It is okay if you want to unwind in the Stardew Valley, but playing League of Legends and not doing your homework is unacceptable. If not checked, gaming can lead to addictive and avoidant behavior. I hope you will take your next step wisely.
About the author
Evie Harrison is a blogger by choice. She loves to discover the world around her. She likes to share her discoveries, and experiences and express herself through her blogs.
Photo credit: The feature image was taken by Kevin Kaye Gaudier. The photo in the body of the article was done by Mastechart Productions.
Source: The sources are as linked in the body of the article.
Editorial notice: This contribution by a guest author does not necessarily reflect the editorial office’s view. Many arguments made here could also apply to video games that are not played on a mobile device.
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FAQs
What are the pros and cons of playing mobile games? ›
- Accessibility: Play mobile games everywhere. ...
- Free games for everyone! ...
- You can have a real casino experience. ...
- Screen size is a very limiting factor. ...
- Shorter Battery life. ...
- No joysticks and keyboards.
Video games can be used to help improve test scores, teach life and job skills, improve brain function, and encourage physical exercise. Because video game addiction can negatively impact social and physical health, parents should be aware of the symptoms.
What are the benefits of playing games on mobile phone? ›Health benefits of playing mobile games
Playing games that help children test their strategic thinking and awareness of their wider environment can help boost memory, spatial awareness and problem-solving. In some cases playing games can also improve dexterity in younger children.
- Addiction – Mobile games can be highly addictive, leading to excessive screen time and neglecting other important activities.
- Cost – While some mobile games are free, many offer in-app purchases that can add up and become expensive.
Moreover, all day of sitting and playing online games is detrimental for physical and mental health. Also at times, kids can download games from unsafe sources which may bring viruses to their mobile phone or PC.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of mobile apps? ›The advantages of mobile apps include convenience, easy communication with customers, and online usage. The disadvantages of mobile apps include difficulty to create, the cost to create them, the cost to make them available to people, and the need for updates and support.
What are 10 benefits of gaming? ›- Improved cognitive abilities.
- Improved problem-solving skills and logic.
- Increased hand-to-eye coordination.
- Greater multi-tasking ability.
- Faster and more accurate decision-making.
- Enhanced prosocial behaviors.
- Better eyesight (attention to detail)
However, there are also some disadvantages to play online games, such as addiction, social isolation, and increased risk of cyberbullying. It is essential to be aware of both the advantages and disadvantages of online gaming and to ensure that gaming is kept in moderation.
What are the negatives of gaming? ›Gaming has also been associated with sleep deprivation, insomnia and circadian rhythm disorders, depression, aggression, and anxiety, though more studies are needed to establish the validity and the strength of these connections.
Are phone games good for your brain? ›Compared to those that don't play games regularly, studies have shown that expert video game players have a higher volume of gray matter, which promotes better memory, muscle control, sensory perception and connectivity between different brain subregions.
What is the disadvantage of playing mobile games to children? ›
Often the decline in academic performance is the most easily observed, but the relationship between playing video games and soft aspects such as feelings of loneliness, loss, self-esteem, social anxiety and social skills is often overlooked.
What is the bad benefits of mobile games? ›Mobile games destroy the lack of attention spans. Studies have shown that the more time children spend playing video games, the poorer is their performance in studies just because of lack of attention.
Are mobile games good or bad for kids? ›Mobile games can be especially challenging because, unlike games played on a big TV screen, they are played on smartphones, which are much more private. On the whole, gaming is a healthy, fun activity, but it's always helpful to stay involved with what your kids are playing, especially when you can't be there to watch.
What are the five disadvantages of mobile? ›Constant distraction, social disruption, never-ending workdays, ongoing expenses, cause of accidents, health problems, youth crimes, etc. are some of the major disadvantages of using mobile phones.
How is gaming good for your brain? ›Functional MRI brain imaging analyses found that children who played video games for three or more hours per day showed higher brain activity in regions of the brain associated with attention and memory than did those who never played.
What are the 4 advantages of online gaming? ›- It helps reduce stress.
- It elevates one's mood.
- It enhances the development of social skills.
- It improves concentration.
- It provides a source of income.
Benefits of Video Games
The combination of concentration and neurotransmitter surges when playing games helps to strengthen neural circuits, giving the brain a real workout. Video games can improve mental skills, such as: Problem solving and logic. Hand-eye coordination, spatial skills and fine motor coordination.
- Malware and viruses. If you try to find cheaper or free versions of your favorite games, then you risk inadvertently downloading viruses and malware instead. ...
- Identity theft. ...
- Account takeover. ...
- Swatting and doxing. ...
- Spyware. ...
- Data breaches. ...
- Cross-site scripting. ...
- DDoS attacks.
- Too much screen time.
- Games aren't always created equally.
- Games can be a source of distraction.
- It requires a technology learning curve.
- Doesn't replace traditional learning strategies.
- Not always aligned to teaching or learning goals.
While there can be some benefits to playing video games, both on behavior and brain health, it's not a risk-free hobby. Playing games for an extended period of time on a regular basis isn't good for your physical health and can possibly hinder your social skills. Being active is a critical aspect of our overall health.
How does gaming affect mental health? ›
One of the biggest negative effects of video games can lead you to struggle with regulating your emotions properly. Studies show that people diagnosed with Internet gaming disorder are more likely to be aggressive, depressed, and anxious.
What are the negative effects of gaming on youth? ›- Less time socializing with friends and family.
- Poor social skills.
- Time away from family time, school work, and other hobbies.
- Lower grades.
- Less reading.
- Less exercise and becoming overweight.
- Decreased sleep and poor quality sleep.
- Aggressive thoughts and behaviors.
"But our results support the claim that screen time generally doesn't impair children's cognitive abilities, and that playing video games can actually help boost intelligence," Klingberg said.
What are 3 bad things about mobile phones? ›- "Text neck." Looking down at your phone for several hours a day can put serious pressure on your neck. ...
- Poor sleep. ...
- Tendinitis. ...
- Distracted traveling. ...
- Relationships. ...
- Concentration and learning issues. ...
- Less physical activity. ...
- Eyesight problems.
- Even many psychological issues such as loneliness, being suspicious all the time, feeling self-centered etc. ...
- Spending most of the time on your phone creates neck problems and sleep deprivation.
- Exposure to unwanted things on the internet affects a child's growth mentally and even physically.
There are many reasons why cell phones are bad. Cell phones cause a distraction for children in classrooms, drivers on the road, and they can be addictive. Another negative effect is cell phones disconnect us from the social world. School districts have taken a stand with cell phones in the classroom.
Is gaming good or bad for kids? ›Some parents fear that video games might be detrimental to children's well-being, but a new study sponsored by the National Institutes of Health finds that gaming may help with both cognition and impulse control. The study was published Monday in the journal JAMA Network Open.
Are games good or bad for kids? ›It's true that some studies have shown certain video games can improve hand–eye coordination, problem-solving skills, and the mind's ability to process information. But too much video game playing may cause problems. It's hard to get enough active play and exercise if you're always inside playing video games.
What are the pros and cons of playing video or online games? ›- Pro: Sharpens Mind, Con: Untrustworthy Gaming Sites.
- Pro: Improved Coordination, Con: Risky for Children.
- Pro: Social Interaction, Con: Expensive.
- Pro: Motivates to Demonstrate Progress, Con: Can Aggravate Violent Behavior.
- Pro: Connecting With People, Con: Gaming Addiction.
It should not be a surprise then, that obesity and malnutrition are risk factors from gaming too much. There is also some preliminary evidence that excessively playing video games can lead to obesity in teens. Eyestrain is a pervasive issue among gamers. Staring at a screen for hours on end.
What are the bad benefits of gaming? ›
Gaming has also been associated with sleep deprivation, insomnia and circadian rhythm disorders, depression, aggression, and anxiety, though more studies are needed to establish the validity and the strength of these connections.
Is playing games good or bad for you? ›It's true that some studies have shown certain video games can improve hand–eye coordination, problem-solving skills, and the mind's ability to process information. But too much video game playing may cause problems. It's hard to get enough active play and exercise if you're always inside playing video games.
What are the bad things about mobile phones? ›- Poor vision: Constant staring at mobile phones affects eyesight and eye health. ...
- Lack of focus: The virtual world they view on their mobile phones is highly distracting. ...
- Anxiety: ...
- Isolation: ...
- Poor academic performance: ...
- Accidents: ...
- Sleep loss: ...
- Bad posture:
Just 10–20 minutes of violent gaming can increase activity in the brain regions associated with arousal, anxiety, and emotional reaction, while simultaneously reducing activity in the frontal lobes associated with emotion regulation and executive control.
What are the pros of online gaming? ›- Social. When online gaming first started, it was not social. ...
- Concentration. Online gaming requires patience, quick actions, and, most importantly, concentration. ...
- Analytical Skills. ...
- Relaxation. ...
- Mood Elevation. ...
- Educational. ...
- Learn New Skills. ...
- Improved Vision.
Pros of Online Learning | Cons of Online Learning |
---|---|
Flexibility | Less Social Interaction |
Affordability | Limited Course Availability |
Individualization | Requires High Degree of Self Discipline |
So if you ever feel like you are spending a lot of time on your computer or mobile then ALERT! This can be dangerous for your mental health. Promote Aggression: Online gaming inhabits the player with a different level of stress. A stressful player can turn aggressive towards the people surrounding him.
What are the three disadvantages of online games? ›- Addition. Video games are addictive if you keep playing them without any break. ...
- Some Games Contains Violence. ...
- Health Problem. ...
- Might Limit Academic Progress. ...
- Might Get Victim of Cyberbullying and Scamming.
As nouns, the difference between disadvantage and advantage is that disadvantage is a weakness or undesirable characteristic; a con while the advantage is any condition, circumstance, opportunity, or means, particularly favorable to success, or any desired end.
What are the effects of playing games? ›The combination of concentration and neurotransmitter surges when playing games helps to strengthen neural circuits, giving the brain a real workout. Video games can improve mental skills, such as: Problem solving and logic. Hand-eye coordination, spatial skills and fine motor coordination.