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The play's the thing: a clinical-developmental perspective on video games
Holly S Gelfond1, Dorothy E Salonius-Pasternak
1Harvard Medical School Center for Mental Health and Media, Waltham, MA 02452, USA.
Summary
This article explores electronic play, specifically computer and video games, examining their impact on child development. It discusses benefits and risks for cognitive and socioemotional growth, offering guidance for clinicians and parents.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Media Studies
- Child Development
Background:
- Electronic play, including video games, is a prevalent form of recreation for children and adolescents.
- Understanding the developmental implications of electronic play is crucial for guiding healthy childhood development.
- Existing research offers varied perspectives on the impact of digital media on young minds.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze computer and video games as a form of electronic play.
- To present major perspectives on play and key developmental issues related to electronic play.
- To explore the benefits and risks of electronic play, focusing on cognitive and socioemotional development.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of major perspectives on play.
- Analysis of developmental issues associated with electronic play.
- Comparative study of electronic play versus other forms of play.
Main Results:
- Electronic play shares similarities and differences with traditional play forms.
- Potential benefits include cognitive skill enhancement and socioemotional learning opportunities.
- Potential risks encompass negative impacts on development if not moderated.
Conclusions:
- Electronic play presents both opportunities and challenges for child development.
- Clinicians should guide children, adolescents, and parents in navigating electronic play.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of electronic play.