New Research Finds Video Games Could Sharpen Young Minds

Our parents usually said when we were kids to play outside rather than staying at home and play video games, but unfortunately playing video games can make your kids smart.

Nonetheless, a 2022 study by a group from Sweden, Germany, and the Netherlands revealed a connection between children's better IQ and playing video games more.

The findings of the study provide credence to the idea that children's cognitive capacities are not typically harmed by screen usage. According to cognitive benefits shown in experimental studies on video gaming, playing video games can potentially increase intellect.

The researchers looked at 9,855 US kids in the ABCD databases who were between the ages of 9 and 10. The children in the study played video games for an hour, watched TV or watched videos online for 2.5 hours, and spent 30 minutes interacting with friends and relatives online.

When they analyzed the data of more than 5,000 of these children after two years, they discovered that those who played video games more frequently had an IQ that was 2.5 points higher than average.

But you should take your time before printing the article and showing it to your mother. Video games only have an impact on one factor, IQ, and they don't even distinguish between different kinds of video games.

“We didn’t examine the effects of screen behavior on physical activity, sleep, well-being, or school performance, so we can’t say anything about that,” said Torkel Klingberg, one of the researchers from Karolinska Institutet in Sweden.

Although this finding may be "good news" for gamers seeking approval, it's crucial to remember that research also links excessive gaming to a number of health problems, including video game addiction.

While these findings may surprise some parents, it's important to remember that every child is unique. Open communication and a balanced approach to screen time are crucial. Encourage children to explore their interests, both online and offline, and find a healthy balance that supports their overall growth and development.

Via Scientific Research