77. Cheat Codes: Effects of Video Games on Kids

This week, we have our next Journal Club article where we dissect an article from JAMA Network Open entitled, "Association of Video Gaming With Cognitive Performance Among Children"

You can find the article on Open Access (FREE) here: If you read the article, connect with me on social media or send me your thoughts in an email - links below.

Episode Outline:
Introduction to my personal history of video games and the concerns that are commonly shared with me by parents

Outlining the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study where the data came from for this article

Describing the testing performed by the children in the study and how these are related to video games

Video Games are associated with improved cognitive performance, but worse behavioral health symptoms

Defining what is meant by "Video Gamers" and "Non-Video Gamers" and acknowledging the key differences between these groups which may explain the differences described in the paper

4 key takeaways from the article that will impact how I integrate video games into our family life when our kids get older.
1) Moderating the use of Video Games is appropriate as there may be some benefit to cognitive skills
2) Video Games should never replace family time or outdoor time
3) Stay connected to your child's mental health and notice if you might need to intervene
4) You may need to regulate video games in your home differently in different seasons based on your child's behavior, mental health, other family priorities, etc. 

Have a question about this or other topics? Connect with Dr. Scott at the Social links below:

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