Mental health counselor Veronica Lichtenstein recently highlighted the cognitive benefits of '90s video games, particularly those like 'Mario Kart,' in a discussion about how gaming affects children's brains today.Lichtenstein argues that these classic games fostered critical thinking and provided a satisfying sense of accomplishment, aspects she claims are largely absent in modern gaming experiences.
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scoop.upworthy.comnewsweek.comLichtenstein emphasizes that games from the '90s, such as 'Pokémon Red Version,' required players to engage deeply with the content, memorizing patterns and overcoming challenges in a structured environment."You fought through levels, memorized patterns, and finally saw the ending," she reflected.This design offered players a strong sense of achievement, described as a "lasting dose of satisfaction" for their brains.
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newsweek.comIn contrast, Lichtenstein critiques the design of contemporary video games, which often leverage microtransactions and data-driven algorithms to keep players engaged.Many modern games, she argues, lack a definitive endpoint, creating an endless cycle of play that prevents closure."There's no real 'end' so you never get closure," she noted, referring to the addictive nature of today's gaming landscape.
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scoop.upworthy.comThe mental health counselor coined the term "junk-food dopamine" to describe the quick but fleeting rewards modern games provide.She posits that this environment trains children to seek constant stimulation instead of mastering skills through sustained effort.The cognitive demands of today's games have diminished significantly; players often resort to quick online searches for solutions when facing challenges, rather than developing problem-solving skills through trial and error, as was common in earlier games.
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scoop.upworthy.comnewsweek.comMelissa Gallagher, a licensed clinical social worker, supports Lichtenstein's claims by contrasting the entertainment experiences of '90s games with those of today."Games from the '90s offered bounded entertainment experiences," she explained.Without the distractions of social media and continuous notifications, children engaged more fully with their gameplay, often spending time with friends or engaging in other physical activities without the pressure to perform.
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scoop.upworthy.comnewsweek.comGallagher warns that modern gaming structures can lead to an inferiority complex among children, as the constant need for ranking and comparison creates undue pressure."This generates pressure, erratic sleep patterns, and makes too much noise in their minds," she said, underscoring the mental health implications of current gaming trends.
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newsweek.comResearch supports the notion that video games can have both positive and negative impacts on mental health.A 2022 study published in BMC Psychology found that video game addiction was associated with lower cognitive and learning skills performance among children.
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scoop.upworthy.comHowever, other research suggests that commercial video games can offer cognitive benefits, such as improved attention control and cognitive flexibility, particularly when played regularly.
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games.jmir.orgIn the face of growing mental health challenges, especially post-COVID-19, there is an increasing demand for accessible and cost-effective treatments.The potential of video games to serve as tools for mental health improvement is gaining traction.
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games.jmir.orgLichtenstein's insights reflect a broader conversation about the evolving role of video games in children's lives.It raises critical questions about how game design affects cognitive development and mental well-being.As families navigate these choices, understanding the psychological implications of gaming is essential.
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newsweek.comgames.jmir.orgIn conclusion, while '90s video games like 'Mario Kart' may have provided a more enriching experience for cognitive development, the current gaming environment poses unique challenges that warrant attention.Balancing entertainment and mental health will be crucial as the gaming landscape continues to evolve.
