Volume 12 : Issue 12.1 (2025)

Adolescence in the Digital Arena: Unveiling the Impact of Online Gaming

The rise of online gaming, particularly among adolescents, has become a global phenomenon, driven by widespread access to smartphones, tablets, and gaming consoles. While online gaming serves as a popular form of entertainment and social interaction, it has sparked significant debate regarding its impact on adolescent development. This paper explores the multifaceted effects of online gaming, drawing insights from empirical research on cognitive, academic, social, psychological, and physical outcomes. On the positive side, online games enhance problem-solving abilities, memory retention, attention skills, and social interaction, fostering teamwork and providing opportunities for cognitive development. However, negative consequences include gaming addiction, decreased academic performance, social isolation, aggression, and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Additionally, excessive gaming contributes to a sedentary lifestyle, sleep disruption, and exposure to inappropriate content. The balance between the positive and negative effects of online gaming necessitates a thoughtful approach to its integration into adolescent lives. This research highlights the importance of moderation, family involvement, and supportive guidelines to ensure that gaming remains a healthy and constructive activity for adolescents. As the gaming industry continues to expand, further research is crucial to understand the full spectrum of its impact on youth behaviour and development.

Online Gaming, Adolescents, Impact of online gaming

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