While violent video games may lead to more aggression and anger in
players, the opposite also is true: relaxing video games can make people
happier and kinder. "With all the evidence about the dangers of
violent video games, it's good to know that players can choose
games that will provide a positive experience," notes Brad Bushman,
coauthor of a study published in Social Psychological and Personality
Science.
"Until recently, we couldn't tell if relaxing video games improved people's moods, because such games didn't exist. Most video games try to rev people up rather than calm them down. but there's a new genre of games available that provides a calming experience.
For instance, 'Endless Ocean" has players take the role of a scuba diver, exploring an ocean habitat for sea life and sunken treasure. They encounter a variety of marine species, including sharks, which, unlike in a stereotypical violent game, do not harm them.
In mood measurement, those who play relaxing games rate themselves as feeling more happiness, love, joy. and related positive emotions than those who play violent games. "Relaxing video games put people in a good mood and, when people are in a good mood, they are more inclined to help others--and that's better for everyone," surmises Bushman.
COPYRIGHT 2011 Society for the Advancement of Education
No portion of this article can be reproduced without the express written permission from the copyright holder.
Copyright 2011 Gale, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved.
"Until recently, we couldn't tell if relaxing video games improved people's moods, because such games didn't exist. Most video games try to rev people up rather than calm them down. but there's a new genre of games available that provides a calming experience.
For instance, 'Endless Ocean" has players take the role of a scuba diver, exploring an ocean habitat for sea life and sunken treasure. They encounter a variety of marine species, including sharks, which, unlike in a stereotypical violent game, do not harm them.
In mood measurement, those who play relaxing games rate themselves as feeling more happiness, love, joy. and related positive emotions than those who play violent games. "Relaxing video games put people in a good mood and, when people are in a good mood, they are more inclined to help others--and that's better for everyone," surmises Bushman.
COPYRIGHT 2011 Society for the Advancement of Education
No portion of this article can be reproduced without the express written permission from the copyright holder.
Copyright 2011 Gale, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved.