Any parent who has tried to take video games away from a child knows the very strong pull these games have. Some parents even say that their children are “addicted” to video games.
It’s no wonder why children can play these games for hours. Video game makers always aim for the games to be fun to play. They graphics are often very realistic and the sound effects and music are fun to listen to.
But what gets kids hooked on playing is the chance to master a skill. As players practice and get better, they are rewarded with higher levels to play.
What is the concern about playing games for so long?
There is some growing evidence that video game play is linked to obesity in children, but researchers are not certain yet. What most people worry about is that children play video games instead of doing activities that would be better for their bodies and minds. Instead of playing video games for hours, children could be playing outdoors, doing homework, or building important relationships with their families and friends.
While these concerns seem obvious, it is important to keep them in perspective. What would most children really do if they didn’t have video games?
Research has shown that most children's video game play is only replacing other media activities they used to do more, like watching TV or using the computer. It takes more than just shutting off the video games to make your child physically fit and well adjusted.
© 2004-2008 Center on Media and Child Health, Children's Hospital Boston.