Video Games and the Psychology of Gamers
Most gamers spend their time on video games, whether it is playing fantasy or hardcore shooters. They are tech-savvy and put little effort into their personal hygiene and fashion. They are also likely to have anger issues, be antisocial in public, and have a high-risk of addiction. Whether they are addicted to online games or not, it is clear that these people are addicted to their gaming communities. But what is it that makes them so addicted to them?
In the United States alone, 200 million adults are currently gamers, and that number is expected to rise to more than 650 million by 2020. That’s about 65% of the adult population. The numbers are higher in Latin America, the Middle East/Africa, Europe, and Asia, where there are about 1.5 billion gamers. Despite the huge number of gamers, gaming remains an underground activity in many regions. However, gaming is growing so rapidly in many other countries, including Latin America.
Because video games are a highly competitive industry, it is crucial to take precautions to protect yourself against injury. Many of the most common injuries gamers sustain in esports involve the wrists and hands. Improper posture, poor posture, and repetitive stress lead to repetitive strain and injury. One such injury is known as gamer’s thumb (also called Nintendo Thumb). The repetitive stress that gamers endure leads to irritation and inflammation of the tendons that control the thumb and other joints.
Other factors that influence gaming behavior include personal, interpersonal, and environmental influences. While this study did not include a formal survey, it has provided valuable insights into the psychology of gamers. Further studies should focus on how gaming experiences relate to different environments and the impact of culture and gender on gaming. In the end, the results are helpful in making policy decisions to protect children and young people from harmful behavior. That way, gamers can focus on the things that really matter most to them and make better gaming experiences.
The first popular video game was an electronic version of ping pong. It was simple: players moved a bar up and down to deflect the ball and their opponents tried to deflect it on the other side. This game first became popular during the 1970s, but it has continued to grow and develop since then. Currently, video games feature enhanced graphics and full-motion video. The number of gamers in North America alone is staggering, and many developers are making mobile versions of their popular games. For example, LoL: Wild Rift reached 6 million downloads on its first day in the Americas.
Aside from a high level of skill, video games offer other benefits. Players can exert control over their in-game characters and learn a new skill. Video games help people relax after a stressful day. Additionally, they provide a sense of control. Because of their multiple choices, players have the opportunity to control their own actions in the game. Some gamers are so dedicated to their games that they insist they are a “real” activity. But they must meet their own needs.
