by Max Lehmann

Created on: December 21, 2006   Last Updated: April 12, 2007

In 2005, Mark Griffiths of Nottingham Trent University in the UK went on record saying that he believes computer games do have benefits. This was reported in the news at the time and it covered issues such as ADHD sufferers and children in pain finding relief and benefits in a focused activity such as computer gaming. He also noted that computer games are often used as a scapegoat for instances of violence but pointed out that there is no evidence to support the idea that gaming causes violence directly.

It is interesting that experts making such statements makes the news - it suggests that it's almost accepted that computer games are a bad thing and somebody saying otherwise is surprising enough to make headlines. No doubt most game players have heard criticisms of their hobbies from a variety of sources. Why is this? Partly it's because computers are a relatively new technology and those who haven't embraced them are quick to see their faults and happy to criticise. It's also partially due to some misunderstandings about gaming. That's not to say that there aren't valid criticisms levelled at gaming, though.

Let's look at a few of the negatives levelled at gaming:

- It's a solitary activity and doesn't promote social interaction.
- It involves repetitive actions and can cause repetitive strain injuries or eye fatigue.
- Gaming can be psychologically addictive and promotes a sedentry lifestyle, leading to obesity and similar health problems.
- Gaming time could be better spent on being educated or creative.
- Games are for kids and adults should be above such trivial pastimes.

Of course, all of these have some validity but they are not the full story since they are based on a very black and white view that doesn't present the full picture. Yes, playing games was traditionally a childhood pursuit but adults have always been encouraged to take part in gaming, be it with cards or board games and technology is simply offering a more sophisticated level of this. Also, in a world where they human lifespan has been dramatically increased, what is wrong with holding on to our youth and playing games when there is the opportunity?

The games industry is a massive employer at the moment, with the newer consoles being some of the most sought after items. When people blame gaming for a lack of creativity health issues they're probably not looking at the big picture because the world is now a place where gaming encourages movement in the form of dance mats, movement sensitive controllers

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