Myth #1: Video Games Cause Players to be More Violent in Real Life
For decades, video games have been scapegoated as a primary driver of violent behavior in society. From school shootings to increased aggression, the media has frequently blamed gaming for a wide range of societal ills. However, the reality paints a very different picture.
Numerous studies have attempted to establish a causal link between violent video games and real-world violence, but the results have been inconclusive at best. While some research has found a correlation between short-term aggressive thoughts or behaviors after playing violent games, these effects tend to be fleeting and do not translate into long-term, violent actions.
As the Take This article points out, “Studies which claim that video games cause violence frequently have limits in their methodology like only monitoring individuals directly after playing instead of assessing violent behaviors over a longer time period. Short-term behavior, in these cases, may be due to lingering adrenaline, as opposed to long-term changes.”
Furthermore, the Medium article highlights that “many scholars dispute these findings, describing these occurrences to merely indicate the violence influences our thoughts rather than our actions. Those whom would be more inclined to administer more hot sauce, are most likely predisposed to violence and violent thoughts.”
It’s important to note that millions of people in the US play violent video games, yet an extremely small fraction of these individuals exhibit ongoing, violent behavior. As the Take This article eloquently states, “Saying that violent video games cause shootings is equivalent to saying that something like drinking water causes shootings since every shooter also drinks water.”
In reality, violent crime in the United States has decreased by almost 50% in the last 30 years, a period during which the consumption of video games has only skyrocketed. This inverse relationship between video game popularity and violent crime rates further undermines the notion that gaming leads to real-world aggression.
Myth #2: All Video Games are Addictive
Another prevalent myth surrounding video games is that they are inherently addictive, akin to hard drugs. This sensationalized view has led to the use of terms like “digital heroin” to describe gaming, and the World Health Organization’s (WHO) inclusion of “gaming disorder” in the International Classification of Diseases.
However, as the Take This article explains, “considerable disagreement exists in the research community over whether this behavior is due to addiction – in the strictest sense of the term – or if there are other underlying factors as the root cause.”
It’s important to recognize that repetitive behaviors, such as excessive gaming, can stem from a variety of underlying issues, including obsessive compulsive disorder, ADHD, autism, and post-traumatic stress disorder. These conditions may manifest in behaviors that outwardly resemble addiction, but the root causes are far more complex than a simple addiction to video games.
Furthermore, the article highlights that the dopamine release associated with playing video games is “more on-par with eating pizza than it is to any hard drugs.” While video games do increase dopamine levels, the spike is relatively mild compared to the massive surges triggered by substances like cocaine, amphetamine, and methamphetamine.
As the Take This article states, “many researchers still do not agree on what the underlying causes of problematic video game engagement are, and they caution against widely assuming repetitive behaviors when it comes to video games are ‘addiction.'”
It’s essential to avoid oversimplifying the issue and recognize that the challenges some individuals face with video games may have deeper, more nuanced roots that require careful examination and personalized solutions.
Myth #3: All Video Games are Predatory in their Design
The belief that all video games are predatory in their design is another common misconception. While it’s true that some games employ predatory mechanics, such as false advertising, mismatching players with overpowered opponents, or requiring players to pay to win, this is not the case for all video games.
As the Take This article explains, “Predatory design is when games ‘disguise or withhold the long-term cost of the activity until players are already financially and psychologically committed,’ and not all games do that.”
The article goes on to highlight the nuance in video game design, stating that “the tricky part is that any game can include these predatory elements, but not all games do, even free-to-play games.” Games where players purchase a copy upfront and simply play it, without the need for in-game transactions or advertisements, are not inherently predatory.
Furthermore, the Medium article emphasizes that “There are two sides to this argument, and both contains some amount of truth. This article is very interesting to compare the science for and against this argument. It entertains the idea that ‘shooter’ games might actually be bad for your brain, in comparison to other types of video games.”
It’s crucial to recognize that video games, like any other medium, can have both positive and negative aspects. Generalizing all video games as predatory oversimplifies a complex issue and fails to acknowledge the nuances and diversity within the industry.
Debunking Other Common Myths
In addition to the three main myths addressed, the sources provided also touch on several other misconceptions about video games:
Myth: Gamers are Antisocial
The Medium article dispels the stereotype of the “hermit adult hiding away in their parents’ basement playing games alone.” In reality, gamers are often more likely to belong to clubs and have a robust social network compared to non-gamers.
Myth: Video Games Rot Your Brain
Contrary to the belief that video games are “mindless and trivial,” research has shown that gaming can improve cognitive functions, problem-solving skills, coordination, concentration, and even fight dyslexia. As with any activity, moderation is key to avoid potential negative effects.
Myth: Video Games are Only for Men
While many games may target a male audience, the Medium article highlights that women make up a significant portion of the gaming population, accounting for 42% of all gamers in the US.
By addressing these common myths and providing factual information and research-backed insights, IT professionals can help dispel the widespread misconceptions surrounding video games and foster a more accurate understanding of this rapidly evolving industry.
Embracing the Nuances of Video Games
As the Take This article aptly states, “The problem with widespread myths rooted more in moral panic than science is that they skip over nuance and make everything black-and-white, good-or-bad, all-or-nothing.”
By debunking these common myths, IT professionals can encourage a more balanced and informed perspective on video games. While acknowledging the potential challenges and risks associated with gaming, it’s essential to recognize the myriad benefits and positive aspects as well.
Video games can be a powerful tool for connection, cognitive development, and entertainment. As the Medium article highlights, gaming communities can foster meaningful social interactions, and video games can even help improve social skills, especially for younger players.
Moreover, the Take This article emphasizes that “it is up to the player or their guardians to be informed on these nuances and make conscientious decisions, just like any other form of media.”
By providing accurate, research-backed information and practical guidance, IT professionals can empower individuals to make informed choices about their video game consumption and usage, ultimately fostering a more nuanced understanding of this dynamic and evolving industry.
Remember, you can find more helpful resources and information on technology, computer repair, and IT solutions on the IT Fix blog. Stay informed, stay connected, and keep exploring the world of technology with us.
