In this article, we’ll take a look at the top reasons that people play online games to relieve stress. We’ll also explore the anonymity of the online environment, the instant gratification it provides, and improved emotional regulation. There’s no question that online games are popular for a variety of reasons. Listed below are some of the more notable ones. But we’ll start with a brief overview of the genres.
Anonymity of online games
Online gaming communities generally encourage social interaction and anonymity, but many users have reported bullying and deviant behaviour. The anonymity factor and the underlying social cues in games can create an environment where bullying, cheating, and other negative behaviour is acceptable. Some online gamers have even been known to become physically unhealthy through excessive participation in online gaming communities. Here are some ways in which online gaming communities can help relieve stress.
Instant gratification
Some people feel relieved by instant gratification in online games, and it’s true: playing them can help you relax. Although competitive games often require skill development to move forward, they are also very addictive and provide an instant gratification feeling. In these competitive games, players can get cool new skins or weapons, or a guaranteed legendary item. While these games, you’ll experience a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction when you complete a certain objective or reach a level.
Reduced loneliness
A recent study has found that interactive video gaming 먹튀폴리스 can reduce loneliness in children, especially during the COVID-19 epidemic. Nevertheless, experts advise parents to discuss the safety aspects of online gaming with their children. The new study will test whether VR games can reduce loneliness. Researchers will examine the relationship between loneliness and motor abilities, reaction time, and performance in virtual reality games. The study also aims to determine if playing VR games can reduce loneliness in older adults.
Improved emotional regulation
Studies have shown that children and adolescents who play video games have improved mood and emotional regulation. The benefits of playing video games have been widely acknowledged, but they have also been linked to negative outcomes. Interestingly, adolescents who played games like Mario Kart showed better emotion regulation skills compared to those who did not play these games. The researchers believe that the positive effects of playing video games may extend to other areas of life, such as health and well-being.
Lower perceived competence
Researchers have reported that lower perceived competence in online games can help relieve stress. They developed and used self-report scales to assess participants’ responses to stress, threat, and challenge appraisals. The scales, which are based on the Biopsychosocial Model of Challenge and Threat, ask participants to indicate their perceived situation-specific demands and their self-concept of abilities. These scales were then adapted to video-game play and categorized into two categories: perceived challenge or perceived demand.
Effects on cortisol
The effects of online games on cortisol have been studied repeatedly, and the results are compelling. When playing online video games, cortisol levels drop significantly by 17%. This translates into better stress management, a higher level of enjoyment, and reduced cardiovascular arousal. Even though online games are largely unsupervised, they do present a unique stress-relieving environment. Children may not realize the importance of avoiding online games, but they are not immune to the effects.
