Computer games can give you enjoyable company when you are alone at home. These games are highly engaging and have the capability to drift you away from the real world. But this requires you to sit for several hours in front of the computer. With ever-increasing interest in computer games and the participation of masses involving all age groups, it's a matter of concern to know whether computer games can harm us or not, and if yes, then to what extent!
Originally playing computer games was perceived as a harmless pastime. But it is similar to watching TV! It does not involve any form of physical activity.
What are the Various Physical Problems Associated with Playing Computer Games?
The sedentary nature of this pastime is believed to be associated with various physical problems like:
- Overuse Injuries: Prolonged and repeated pressing of buttons on the computer game controller can lead to overuse injury or repetitive stress injury (RSI) in the hand. RSI can result in inflammation (pain and swelling), muscle strain, or tissue damage. Risk of getting thumb injuries is more common because you tend to use your thumbs more frequently while playing these games.
- Obesity: There is a direct relationship between the duration of playing a computer game and the risk of obesity. You cannot resist the addictive nature of these games and tend to sit for long hours in front of the computer. There is lack of physical activity, which is solely responsible for causing obesity.
- Muscle and Joint Problems: A range of muscle and joint problems have been observed in individuals who work or play on computers for a long duration of time. Postural abnormalities (like crooked posture), back pain, neck pain and other spinal problems are more common in such individuals because of the irregular sitting position in front of the monitor.
- Visual Fatigue: Eyes can get strained due to a continuous and a prolonged focus on the screen. This may lead to visual fatigue. This may be accompanied by symptoms like blurred vision, watery eyes and even headache.
- Photosensitive Epileptic Seizures: Photosensitive epilepsy (PSE) has been noted in some computer game players who experience seizures in response to flickering and flashing light. While it is a rare form of epilepsy and only a very small percentage of game players may be sensitive to some games that feature rapidly flashing graphics, the potential risk can be reduced by keeping a safe distance away from the screen (at least 2 meters) and using a high resolution screen if possible.
Is there any Psychological Effect?
The impact of playing computer games is not limited to physical effects alone! The psychological effects include behavioral abnormalities. Playing violent computer games has been found to be associated with short term aggressive behavior.
Further, computer games are highly addictive in nature and have the capability to keep you engaged for several hours. A child's academics are likely to be affected adversely if he spends a lot of time playing computer games while ignoring his studies.
How can You Minimize the Negative Aspects of Playing Computer Games?
Harmful effects of computer games can be minimized with proper measures like:
- Set a sensible time limit on playing games. Just 1-2 hours is enough for entertainment (including time spent playing computer/video games and watching TV).
- Take frequent breaks and do some relaxing exercises for your hands, back and neck. Go for a small walk and do some stretching.
- Take frequent 'gaze' breaks, such as looking at distant objects to change the focal point in order to prevent eye strain.
- Use ergonomically designed game controls to prevent excessive stress on your hands.
- Incorporate physical activity and exercises in your day to day routine. Go for some outdoor games like cricket, football, tennis, and swimming.
- Adopt healthy eating habits and avoid aerated soft drinks and fried stuff like potato chips and French Fries.
- Ensure proper posture by using ergonomically designed chairs.
- Adjust the screen at proper height and distance to avoid visual strain. Also, make sure the screen is adjusted properly for contrast and brightness.
- Use anti-glare glasses or screen guards to protect your eyes.
Playing computer games is not a bad idea if you know when to stop! Computer games can help you to relax by taking you away from the hassles of the real world. Some computer games are highly educative and can even increase your attention span and the visual attention skills (the ability to keep track of several objects at the same time). If you can manage to control your addiction and take protective steps, then you can entertain yourself with this pastime without causing any potential harm to your health.
