plz replay to this DB post and include biblical citations in the replay.
In contemporary psychology, the impact of video games on social behavior is a new yet critical area of research. This topic is highly relevant given the popularity of video games across many different age groups and the popularized debate about their social and psychological effects. The following discussion examines three peer-reviewed articles in an effort to understand the current state of research, identify gaps, and explore how the Bible can enhance our knowledge and research direction.
There have been many new studies on the impact of video games. The study by Shao & Wang (2019) explored how exposure to violent video games influences aggression among adolescents. The researchers found a significant positive correlation between violent video game exposure and aggressive behavior. Normative beliefs about aggression played a mediating role, while the family environment moderated the effect of these beliefs. Another study by Lobel et al. (2017) assessed the impact of video gaming on the psychosocial well-being of children. The researchers found that moderate gaming is actually associated with positive results such as improved social skills and reduced emotional issues. But, excessive gaming can lead to negative effects like increased anxiety and social withdrawal. Another study by Johannes et al. (2021) used industry data to analyze the relationship between actual playtime and well-being and results indicate that the amount of time spent playing video games is a small but significant positive factor in well-being. The enjoyment gained from playing and the social connections formed during gameplay were more critical determinants of well-being.
Despite these insights, several gaps remain in the research: First, many studies on this topic are cross-sectional, limiting the understanding of long-term impacts. Also, there is a need to explore how contextual factors like family environment and social support influence the effects of video gaming. Lastly, more research needs to be done across diverse demographic groups to generalize findings.
Biblical principles can provide perspective on the effects of video games on social behavior and the proper place gaming should have. Ephesians 4:29 states, “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” This verse reflects the importance of positive and constructive communication, which can be created through healthy social interactions, including those in gaming environments. Philippians 4:8 also encourages focusing on whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable. Applying this to gaming, players should seek games that promote positive values and constructive behaviors, and thus enhancing their social and psychological well-being.
Here are a few practical recommendations based on the initial research for gamers and caregivers. First, promote moderation in gaming to harness its positive effects on social skills and well-being, while avoiding excessive use that can lead to negative outcomes. Also encourage games that offer cooperative and prosocial experiences that enhance social connections and empathy. Normative beliefs about aggression should be addresses via educational programs that promote non-violent conflict resolution and empath. Selecting games that align with positive values and behaviors should be an intentional exercise and top of mind. Family and community support should be strong in order to buffer potential negative effects of gaming. This could look like parental involvement and creating spaces for positive social interactions both online and offline.
The research on video games and social behavior presents a complex picture and shows both positive and negative impacts of the ever so popular hobby. By creating balanced gaming habits, intentionally pursuing positive norms, and creating supportive environments, society can harness the social benefits of video gaming while reducing its risks. Incorporating biblical principles of positive communication and focusing on virtuous content can also enhance the social and psychological benefits of gaming.
References:
Shao R, Wang Y. (2019) The Relation of Violent Video Games to Adolescent Aggression: An Examination of Moderated Mediation Effect. Front Psychol. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00384
Lobel, A., Engels, R. C., Stone, L. L., Burk, W. J., & Granic, I. (2017). Video Gaming and Children’s Psychosocial Wellbeing: A Longitudinal Study. Journal of youth and adolescence, 46(4), 884–897. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10964-017-0646-zLinks to an external site.
Johannes N, Vuorre M, Przybylski AK. (2021). Video game play is positively correlated with well-being. R Soc Open Sci. doi: 10.1098/rsos.202049.
