Over the past few years, there has been a noticeable shift in how we perceive video games. The outdated stereotype of games being a solitary activity enjoyed only by angry, pale teenage boys is becoming less relevant. Video games are no longer a niche hobby for nerds; they have become the defining entertainment medium of the 21st century. According to one estimate, there are 3.09 billion gamers worldwide, with data from the US suggesting that two-thirds of American adults play video games, regardless of gender.
However, despite the growing acceptance of video games, they still face suspicion and negative portrayals in the media. Scare stories about their supposed harmful effects continue to dominate headlines. As someone who believes in the positive potential of video games, I have written before about their benefits in terms of emotional exploration and connection. Yet, the overall discussion surrounding their impact remains stagnant, with a simplistic debate about whether they are good or bad for us.
One reason for this is the lack of scientific understanding about what video games can truly offer. Academic research in this field has primarily focused on the negative aspects of gaming or has been reactive to societal concerns. This has resulted in methodologically flawed studies, such as those linking violent games to real-world aggression. Thankfully, recent more rigorous studies adhering to open science principles have debunked these claims. The best evidence available suggests no substantial or long-term connection between violent video games and aggressive behavior.
Moreover, the emphasis on the negative aspects of gaming has limited researchers’ ability to explore more fundamental questions about why people enjoy playing video games and the true benefits and risks involved. As a result, psychological scientists have struggled to drive meaningful policy changes that optimize the benefits and minimize the potential harms of digital play.
Designing experimental studies that accurately replicate real-life gaming situations is incredibly challenging. Companies’ reluctance to share data about gameplay patterns further complicates research efforts. Often, psychologists have to rely on self-report measures, which are not always accurate. For instance, people tend to overestimate the time they spend playing video games. To gain meaningful insights into the effects of video games, researchers need access to objective, real-world industry data, which is often beyond their reach.
That is why the government’s release of a new video games research framework is significant. Recognizing the need for a stronger evidence base, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport collaborated with researchers and industry representatives to develop best-practice guidelines. This framework serves as a blueprint for conducting high-quality research and categorizing different forms of gameplay effectively.
Additionally, the framework outlines priority research questions, such as how new video game technologies impact players’ subjective experiences and their ability to empathize with others. While we do not have all the answers yet, the framework provides a rational and sensible approach to addressing these questions. If we genuinely want to understand the positive and negative effects of video games, it is crucial to take them seriously and engage in rigorous research.
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