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Blog Post 3: Social Media Usage vs. Video Games: A Comparative Analysis
Written: September 27th 2023
Introduction:
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The focus of this week's lecture was around digital wellness, I believe it to be essential to discuss the distinct differences regarding social media and video games. Specifically as both occupy a significant chunk of many people’s daily lives and I would like to talk about how it may be more effective to use one more than the other.
1. The Active Engagement of Video Games
Video games have always been painted as a bad character, however contrary to some beliefs, offer several benefits:
Hand-Eye Coordination: Many video games require precise timing and accuracy. Players often have to make split-second decisions that respond immediately to immediate actions in the game. Thus, the constant decision-action cycle can enhance hand-eye coordination (Alekhin & Pultsina, 2020).
Mental Fortitude: Games often present challenges that players must overcome, many that take time, knowledge and skill. This can range from solving complex puzzles to mastering a game's mechanics. Overcoming these challenges can boost a player's problem-solving skills and resilience in other domains outside of the game (Alekhin & Pultsina, 2020).
Active Participation: One must remember that video games require active engagement. Players must be alert, make decisions, and react to situations, habitually teaching their minds to be more flexible and alert (Alekhin & Pultsina, 2020).
2. The Passive Nature of Social Media
Social media is remarkable that it can offer connectivity and instant communication, over the years it has built in it’s own downsides:
Data Harvesting: Many platforms collect user data, which can be used for targeted advertising or even sold to third parties. In addition, the algorithm uses your data to understand your interests and shows you videos, images, or text specifically to keep you to passively scroll as long as possible. (BBC Future, 2018).
Manipulation: Moreover, the Algorithms are designed to lead users into echo chambers where users are only exposed to similar viewpoints, many of which can lead to radical beliefs and the distaste of others who do not think similarly to them (LinkedIn, 2023).
Mental Health Concerns: As explained in class, excessive social media use has been linked to depression, anxiety, and loneliness. The constant comparison with others can also lead to self-esteem issues.
3. The Underlying Intentions & Wrap Up
Video games are primarily designed for entertainment, the only true concerns that many tend to experience are dealing with toxic online communities for specific games and the addition of microtransactions in game. Leading them to be addictive, their primary purpose is to provide an engaging experience for the player. Responsible usage of both Video Games and Social Media is crucial, however the “bad” intentions of Video Games tend to not be as subtle. For most games, the developers do not gain anything from the length of the session. While for Social Media, your undivided attention and ideology is their most important asset.
References:
Alekhin, A., & Pultsina, K. (2020). The impact of information technology on a child’s cognitive development: A systematic review of modern research. Psychology in Education and Education. https://doi.org/10.33910/2686-9527-2020-2-4-366-371
BBC Future. (2018). Is social media bad for you? The evidence and the unknowns. https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20180104-is-social-media-bad-for-you-the-evidence-and-the-unknowns
Roy, S. (2023). 10 negative effects of social media on society. LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/10-negative-effects-social-media-society-soniya-roy/
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