What Are the Bad Effects of Playing Online Games?

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According to the latest research from Japan, prolonged periods playing with game consoles can lead to decreased brain activity and cause users to suffer from severe emotional and behavioral problems. The study, conducted at Tokyo's Nihon University, has revealed that people who spend long periods playing video games demonstrate less activity in the prefrontal region of their brain -- which governs emotion and creativity -- than their peers. Researchers claim that side effects can include loss of concentration, an inability to control temper and problems socializing or associating with others (2)." Some of the physical effects of video games are "Social isolation — Players often play alone and the games have little real-world application. They may spend less time in other activities such as sports, reading, interacting with the family, or doing homework. Increased aggressive behavior — Despite the limitations of the studies, most experts agree on the basic link between games and increased aggression. Desensitization to gender issues — Women are often portrayed as weak, ineffective, or having exaggerated chests. Rewarding violent behavior — In violent video games the winners are usually the ones who have more violent options at their command — and use them. Negotiating and other nonviolent solutions are often not options. Seizures— Although seizures are not commonly triggered, "Some kids are more prone to flashes of light when they occur at certain frequencies." Says Walsh, A Scientist "We see strobe warnings in theaters, but not in video games." Repetitive stress injuries — Carpal tunnel syndrome is a familiar lament. So is "Nintendo Grip," which can make it difficult for children who play games a lot to hold a pencil properly (4)." If video games are so rewarding, scientists believe that it will be easier for children and teenagers to become addicted to them
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