Loh Down on Science: Special Pandemic Edition
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Extra quaran-screen time has revived a generations-old question: do video games really rot your brain?
Experts say… not exactly! Too much of a good thing is, of course, bad. Playing games nonstop can lead to anxiety, depression, and headaches. But, in moderation, video games help our brains level up! They can help us form memories, learn strategy, and even be nicer to our families. A definite plus while everyone is stuck together!
Written and reported by Brenna Biggs.
References:
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Granic, I. Video Games Play May Provide Learning, Health, Social Benefits, Review Finds. American Psychological Association (2013).
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Männikkö, N. Problematic gaming behaviour and health-related outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Health Psychology (2017).
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Timing and correction of stepping movements with a virtual reality avatar. PLOS One (2020).
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Bedinghaus, T. Video Games and Eyestrain. Very Well Health (2020).
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Green, C.S.; Bavelier, D. Learning, Attentional Control, and Action Video Games. Current Biology (2012).
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Granic, I; Lobel, A.; Engels, R. C. M. E. The Benefits of Playing Video Games. American Psychologist (2014).