Busting popular myths about video games

Entertainment Page d'accueil

March 28, 2024

Video games and its influence on young minds is a controversial topic that everyone seems to have an opinion about. As an outsider looking in on the life of a gamer, there are a lot of things that look abnormal. We often tend to critique the kind of games they play and the amount of time they spend on their gaming devices. Contrary to popular belief, gaming isn’t as bad as the reputation it was given. There are many misconceptions about gaming culture that have been spreading all over the world, and we’re here to debunk some of them.

Encourages violent behaviors

One of the most common myths circulating the world is that video games trigger violence and aggression in users – whether they are children or much older. Most of the popular video games like Call of Duty and Fortnite are based on the use of guns and violence, hence many people assume that playing these games will bring about violent behaviors especially in children. However, there have been many studies that prove that there is no correlation between playing video games and developing violent characteristics. In fact, the Digital Australia report of 2020 shows that gaming has reduced anxiety for 75% of gamers, and has improved their social wellbeing. 

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Male dominated community

Another misconception is that men play video games more than women. Research has found that in the U.S., 1 out of 2 gamers is a woman. Dr. Anthony Beam, a psychologist spoke to Brut and said that around half of his clients are female video gamers. Likewise the Digital Australia report of 2020 also confirms that 47% of gamers are female. Despite these numbers, Dr.Anthony Beam suggests that even in the online world there is a gender inequality and oftentimes female gamers feel like they cannot voice their opinions in the gaming community.

Gamers are not sociable

When you see someone playing on their computer, or gaming device all day, you may assume that they don’t have a social life, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. The gaming community is massive and tight-knit. Video games are no longer something you do solo. Thanks to the internet you can connect with people all around the world and talk to them – not just about the game you’re playing but also about your own lives. There have been lifelong friendships made over video games and just because you don’t see your gaming partner doesn’t mean the friendship isn’t real.

Gaming doesn’t give you real skills

Parents were often quick to dismiss video games with the argument that video games don’t help their children acquire the proper skills that they need while growing up. Now with the rise of educational video games and applications – they’ve been proved wrong. Research has found that video games can help stimulate a young mind and teach them a lot about abiding by the rules. It’s also been found that video games can improve memory and concentration. It doesn’t just help children, but it can help adults refine and practice their skills as well.