Kids Who Play Video Games Are Smarter & More Successful
YourTango • • health
Key Points:
- A new study from Columbia University found that children aged 6 to 11 who play video games regularly have nearly twice the odds of exhibiting high intellectual functioning and overall school competence compared to non-players.
- Contrary to common assumptions, the research showed that kids who play video games do not experience increased mental health problems and are actually better at social integration and peer relationships.
- The study analyzed data from over 3,000 children and accounted for various demographic and family factors, reinforcing the positive association between video gaming and cognitive as well as social benefits.
- Researchers caution that while video games can have positive effects, parents should still moderate screen time to avoid potential negative impacts associated with excessive use.
- The findings challenge long-held beliefs that video games harm children's development, suggesting instead that gaming can be a beneficial hobby that supports intellectual growth and social cohesion.
