Prescribing PlayStation: When Video Games Are Good for Kids

  • 10.19.2017
  • Industry Updates

Research demonstrates that video games can have a positive impact on physical and mental health.

AT A GLANCE

  • Playing popular video games improves visual attention, contrast sensitivity, spatial navigation, strategic planning, and fine motor skills in the hands.
  • Incorporating theories of video game design can make healthy and educational tasks more enjoyable, increasing motivation for engagement in a process called “gamification”.
  • Games requiring physical activity can be a good source of exercise. Specialized games have been used to teach youth cognitive behavioral skills, social skills, and even traffic safety.
  • Specialized games have been proven effective as treatments for depression, anxiety, and behavioral problems and show promise for schizophrenia.
  • Specialized video games are effective forms of medical treatments for amblyopia and obesity, aid in physical therapy, and provide valuable distraction from pain during medical procedures.
  • Incorporated into traditional counseling, games can improve alliance and engagement.

Read the full research study here.

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