Scientists have identified a time limit for video games, exceeding which is harmful to health
Many studies on the impact of computer games on people talk about the harm to the psyche due to excessive addiction to them. The authors of other studies emphasize that if the time spent on such entertainment is moderate, the harm is minimal. Scientists from Australia decided to focus on the consequences of prolonged gamification for physical well-being. In a fresh paper, they named specific time limits, going beyond which leads to problems.
The popularity of computer and online games is growing worldwide. Among their fans today are not only youngsters, but people of different ages and interests. Estimates on the number of gamers vary: according to some reports, their global audience in 2022 exceeded three billion people.
While computer games are enjoyed by many, it is important to practice moderation with this form of entertainment - as with others. Gaming is linked to hypodynamia and prolonged exposure to static, often incorrect postures. The World Health Organization has previously recognized the negative impact of video games and included addiction to them in the list of diseases and disorders.
Australian researchers studied the results of a survey of nearly 1,000 fans of computer games, which was conducted in 2022 as part of a larger international study International Gaming Study. Its participants were residents of Canada, Australia, the US and the UK from 18 to 94 years old.
According to the answers, scientists traced the relationship between the time of continuous gaming in respondents and health problems over the past year.
Overall, the analysis found that the higher the frequency of gaming, the more people experienced negative consequences. Regardless of age or gender, those who played for three consecutive hours or more at a time were more likely to experience visual fatigue, wrist pain, arm pain, back pain and neck pain.
Interestingly, the effects on well-being for gaming sessions of three hours or more were similar to those reported by those who played for six hours or more. They were experienced by both amateur gamers and those who decided to become professional gamers.
Older participants were more likely to report hand and wrist pain as a result of prolonged gaming sessions. Respondents at increased risk for gaming disorders, which was also assessed in the survey, reported additional negative symptoms such as headaches and lethargy.
The authors of the study, published in the journal Computers in Human Behavior, called for increased awareness of the harms of prolonged gaming sessions and measures to encourage healthier gameplay scenarios. To reduce negative effects, experts recommend that players take regular breaks, use ergonomic chairs and other specialized equipment.
Meanwhile, scientists have recently warned of another health hazard for gamers. A meta-analysis of past scientific papers has shown that sound volume levels in video games are often close to or above acceptable levels. This can lead to irreversible consequences, such as hearing loss or tinnitus - constant noise or ringing in the ears.