Playing Video Games With Friends

Benefits of Playing Video Games with Friends

Improves Social Skills
Playing video games with friends can help improve social skills, as it requires communication and teamwork. This can be especially beneficial for children and teens who may be shy or have difficulty making friends.

Provides Social Interaction
In today's age of social distancing, playing video games with friends can be a great way to stay connected and socialize. It allows you to interact with your friends in a fun and engaging way, even if you can't be together in person.

Increases Cognitive Function
Playing video games requires problem-solving skills, quick reflexes, and hand-eye coordination. These skills are strengthened when playing with friends as you work together to overcome obstacles and complete objectives.

Reduces Stress
Playing video games can be a great way to relax and unwind, especially when playing with friends. Social interaction and engaging gameplay can help reduce stress levels and improve overall mood.

Drawbacks of Playing Video Games with Friends

Can Be Addictive
Playing video games, especially with friends, can be addictive. It's important to set limits and ensure that gaming does not interfere with other important aspects of life, such as schoolwork or family time.

Can Be Expensive
With the rise of online gaming, playing with friends may require purchasing additional equipment or monthly subscription fees. It's important to be mindful of the cost of gaming and ensure that it fits within your budget.

Can Lead to Conflict
Competitive multiplayer games can lead to conflicts between friends, especially when one player is more skilled than others. It's important to approach gaming with a spirit of sportsmanship and respect for others.

Conclusion

Playing video games with friends can be a fun and rewarding experience, providing social interaction, cognitive benefits, and stress relief. However, it's important to be aware of the potential drawbacks, such as addiction, cost, and conflict. By setting limits and approaching gaming with a positive attitude, playing video games with friends can be a healthy and enjoyable activity for all ages.

References:

Schneider, E. F., Lang, A., Shin, M., & Bradley, S. D. (2004). Death with a story: How story impacts emotional, motivational, and physiological responses to first-person shooter video games. Human Communication Research, 30(3), 361-375.

Ferguson, C. J. (2015). Do angry birds make for angry children? A meta-analysis of video game influences on children's and adolescents' aggression, mental health, prosocial behavior, and academic performance. Perspectives on Psychological Science, 10(5), 646-666.

Granic, I., Lobel, A., & Engels, R. C. (2014). The benefits of playing video games. American Psychologist, 69(1), 66-78.