Tech companies are introducing novel video games with every passing day, however, studies have shown their severe Negative impacts on the lifestyle of youngsters. They are created for entertainment but youngsters are getting addicted to them. The addiction disturbs their daily routine life in so many. According to Healthychildren.org, children should not be exposed to screen for more than two hours per day.
Here are some of the negative impacts of Video Games
1. Obsession
If your child is constantly thinking about games and discussing them and has abandoned all other activities such as social interaction, curricular and extra-curricular activities, it may be a sign of addiction.
A lack of concentration makes them unable to pay attention to studies.
2. Health issues
Spending lot of time in front of screens playing video games may lead to health issues. The child's sleep and eating habits get disturbed. Additionally, other medical problems like backache, eye strain, headaches, pain and numbness in the wrist, elbows, hands, and shoulders can occur. Due to less physical activity and a sedentary lifestyle, the child may suffer from childhood obesity.
3. Increased aggression
Children playing video games that feature violent actions are more likely to develop aggressive thoughts and extremist tendencies. Games full of explicit content, abusive language, gangs, mafia, and violence may allow children to think that crime and the use of weapons is socially acceptable.
How to minimize playing video games
- Do not allow video game equipment in your child's bedroom.
- Set time limits regarding playing time i.e. how often and how long a child can play.
- Discuss with your child what they are playing in video games, exchange views, ask questions to be closer to your child.
- Although entertainment is a must you should monitor and supervise your child's media use, eliminating any malicious and violent content they are watching. Ensure they are playing right kind of games.
- Encourage your children to participate in outdoor activities.
Everything has its pros and cons.
Research has also shown that creative and fun video games are helpful in building essential skills like management, multitasking, innovative thinking, strategic thinking and decision making. Furthermore, they distract users from stress by entertaining them. Also, children able to grasp the concepts of technology at a young age.