Video gaming has evolved over the past thirty or so years into a multi-billion dollar industry and is an integral part of the American cultural landscape. Playing has progressed from the mostly sedentary activity of pressing buttons to waving Wii remotes and whole-body interactive play. The Pew Internet and American Life Project cites that over 90 percent of girls and boys, ages 12-17, engage in video game play.
Quality of Quantity of Time Spent Playing
The physical effects of daily video game playing by children is dependent on the way they play video games as all games are not created equal. Just as there are quality, educational programs you would prefer your children watch on TV, there are more active and educational types of games parents can purchase for their children. The right game, for example, can provide your child with the daily activity requirements recommended for their age group.
Video Games Improving Reputation
Video games which were regarded as possible health risks for children, are now being touted as a solution to combat obesity and to prepare our surgeons of tomorrow so says studies by Iowa State University psychologist Douglas Gentile and Dr. James Rosser. Playing active video games such as Dance Dance Revolution and Wii Fit boxing increases energy expenditure comparable to moderate-intensity walking.
Considerations
Parent's who monitor their child's video game play should follow recommended screen-time limit of no more than one hour per day, play games with their children, and choose age-appropriated games in line with parental values. If unsure, rent the game and play it before sharing it with your child.
Trends of Future Gaming
If you are a parent who considers video gaming just for kids, think again. Video gaming is now attracting a diverse group of players spanning all ages because of it's entertaining mixture of gaming and exercise popularized by the Nintendo Wii. New consoles are jumping on the 'exergame' bandwagon including Microsoft's Kinetic and Sony PlayStation Move.
Misconceptions
MIT professor, Henry Jenkins, debunks popular myths about video game play and players. The research reveals that violent and aggressive tendencies are not prompted by video game play, nor does game play produce socially isolated and desensitized individuals.
References
- Science Daily: Adding Activity To Video Games Fights Obesity, Study Shows
- Pew Internet and American Life Project: Major new study shatters stereotypes about teens and video games
- Kaiser Family Foundation: Children and Video Games
- Science Daily: Violent Video Games May Increase Aggression in Some but Not Others, Says New Research
- USA Today: Studies: Video games can make better students, surgeons
