The Psychological Benefits of Video Game Play

By Philip Woods

Many people will explore gaming systems such as the Xbox or the Sony PlayStation in a manner that focuses on the fun pursuits. However, has anyone ever mentioned the psychological factors that playing such games present and what their impact on the gamers may be?

Okay, some may be wringing their hands at the mere mention of how psychological evaluations would enter the mix of a discussion of gaming systems. Most would assume that the standard psychological evaluation of the systems would be negative. Well, while it is true some psychiatrists and psychologists have made negative imagery associated with game play, there are also a number of mental health professionals that talk about video game play in a very positive light.

The top reason a few members of the therapy profession will speak positively about the many video games on the market can be found in one word: empowerment. Simply put, when certain gamers play a video game, the thrill of winning the game leads to the previously elusive concept of empowerment. This can then have a positive impact on an individual's life. No, this is not an over analysis of the part of the therapist. There has always been a link between playtime and empowerment and gaining an understanding of the link is nowhere near as difficult as many initially assume.

The way empowerment works is that it can help someone gain a subconscious control of the demons of the mind that might be haunting him. No, this is not a New Age approach to game play. It is a rather common act that people engage in whether consciously or not.

A common example of this could be seen in any outer space themed game. These games are commonly designed to allow the heroic player to defeat the malevolent aliens that are looking to cause chaos. While futuristic in concept, a game of this sort is really not different than the classic struggle of good vs. evil played out all through history. In turn, this can have a great impact on the mind of the person playing.

How does this work? The process entails the subconscious desire to overcome adversity. For example, let's say a High School student is dealing with the complexities of not being able to perform well in a given subject. Such a feeling can make someone appear defenseless and a little weak. Who would want to embody such a feeling? Probably not all that man people. That is where the experience of playing video games turns helpful. Defeating the aliens becomes a subconscious outlet for being able to defeat the anxiety of having to deal with low grades of problematic courses. This is but one example, there are many others that can be put forth.



There is a certain sense of unfairness deriving when people will say video games lack much value. Again, an inaccurate sentiment such as this is not a very fair one. There are a variety of positive reactions and responses many will look derive from such games. Why not look into what these games have to offer? - 29872

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