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Unless you’re living in a secluded cabin without internet access (and if so, how are you reading this?), your children are likely spending considerable time in front of screens every day. Many parents express concern about the effects of excessive screen time on their children. However, as researchers delve into the consequences of our increasingly digital lives, it’s becoming evident that not all screen time is harmful, and some may even be beneficial for cognitive development.
For instance, a new study has revealed that engaging in video games can be linked to significant improvements in intelligence among children aged 9-12. Analyzing data from over 5,000 kids at ages 9-10 and again two years later, researchers discovered that those who played more video games showed the most considerable gains in intelligence when reassessed. This positive correlation was consistent across both genders.
While previous studies have suggested cognitive benefits from gaming, this research stands out as it accounts for genetic factors and socioeconomic status, both of which are known to influence intelligence. The study employed five different tasks to evaluate intelligence, focusing on areas like reading comprehension, vocabulary, attention, executive function, visual-spatial processing, and the ability to learn over multiple trials.
Children reported their daily screen time across three activities: watching videos (either online or on TV), socializing, and gaming. On average, kids spent about four hours in front of screens each day, with the top 25% of users averaging six hours. A breakdown of their activities showed that kids spent about 2.5 hours watching videos, half an hour socializing online, and one hour playing video games.
At ages 9-10, there was a noticeable link between lower intelligence scores and time spent watching videos or socializing. In contrast, gaming appeared to have a neutral effect at that age. However, by the time they were reassessed two years later, those who had spent more time gaming exhibited significant gains in intelligence, while socializing online did not yield similar benefits. Although watching videos seemed to have some positive effect, this diminished when considering parental education levels.
Interestingly, boys in the study generally spent more time gaming and watching videos, while girls favored socializing. Notably, girls aged 9-10 who engaged more with video games tended to have higher intelligence scores.
Does this mean you should encourage your kids to play more video games? Not necessarily. Excessive screen time can negatively affect children’s physical and emotional health, especially if it detracts from physical activity, exploration, or face-to-face interactions. Nonetheless, this study reinforces the idea that not all screen time is created equal, and video games may offer a more constructive digital engagement for children.
Limitations of the study include reliance on self-reported screen time and the failure to differentiate between various types of video games, leaving unclear whether participants were playing strategy games or action-oriented titles. Researchers Emily Carter and Liam Johnson commented, “Our findings should not be interpreted as a blanket endorsement for unlimited gaming. However, for parents concerned about their children playing video games, this research may provide some reassurance that it could contribute positively to their cognitive development.”
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Summary
A study suggests that video games may positively impact children’s intelligence, particularly between ages 9-12. While excessive screen time is a concern for parents, the findings imply that gaming could offer cognitive benefits. However, balance is crucial, and parents should still monitor screen time to ensure it doesn’t hinder physical or social development.
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