Video Gaming May Improve Brain Functions, Research Shows
In a recent study conducted by the Lero Esports Science Research Lab at the University of Limerick, researchers found that video gaming can actually enhance certain cognitive abilities and improve brain functions. The findings challenge common criticisms of video gaming and open new doors to potential applications in fields requiring high levels of cognitive function.
The study analyzed the cognitive performance of 88 young adults, with half of them being regular gamers who engage in over seven hours of action-based video games each week. Surprisingly, both gamers and non-gamers experienced a similar decline in cognitive performance, indicating no significant difference in levels of cognitive fatigue.
Through tasks designed to measure cognitive functions such as reaction time, executive function, working memory, and visuospatial memory, researchers explored how gaming habits may influence cognitive capabilities. Gamers outperformed non-gamers in tasks that required switching responses between numbers and letters, as well as in a maze activity.
Dr. Adam Toth of the University of Limerick and Lero emphasized the significance of these findings, stating, “The regular playing of video games is often criticized and seen as unhealthy, but our research shows that gamers may enjoy some cognitive benefits, particularly relating to attentiveness and memory.”
Dr. Mark Campbell, another contributor to the research, highlighted the broader implications of the findings, suggesting that video game play could be encouraged in fields such as surgery and air traffic control to develop elite cognitive performance.
Additionally, the study explored cognitive endurance by examining whether gamers were less susceptible to cognitive fatigue compared to non-gamers. Both groups experienced a similar decline in performance, indicating no significant difference in levels of cognitive fatigue.
By demonstrating that regular engagement with video games can lead to quicker decision-making and problem-solving skills, the study suggests a reevaluation of gaming’s role in cognitive development and professional training programs.
This research challenges stereotypes about video gaming and provides valuable insights into its positive aspects and contributions to cognitive enhancement. As the dialogue around video gaming evolves, studies like this shed light on the potential benefits of gaming and its impact on brain function.
The full study was published in the British Journal of Psychology.
Analyst comment
Positive news. The study shows that video gaming can enhance cognitive abilities and improve brain functions, challenging common criticisms. This suggests that gaming could be beneficial in fields requiring high levels of cognitive function. Gaming may lead to quicker decision-making and problem-solving skills, leading to potential reevaluation of gaming’s role in cognitive development and professional training programs.