Video games offer a temporary fix to negative emotions and problems. Bernard used games to avoid frustration and feel good. Eventually, he realized that he was wasting time and could have studied. Two other participants admitted that they continued to play games even though they didn’t like them. In the past, they didn’t even bother to use the bathroom! In our study, we looked at how these gamers used their spare time to overcome negative emotions and problems.
While many participants reported that gaming has become a part of their daily routines, outsiders may misunderstand these gamers and think that they are completely irrational. Nevertheless, gaming is an integral part of gamers’ lives, fulfilling many purposes. Participants play video games for a variety of reasons: relaxation, challenges, fun, socialization, and control. For some, it is a way to manage stress and meet self-care needs.
Another barrier to gaming is the lack of acceptance in popular culture. Some people believe that video gaming is for children, and this attitude can result in a sense of segregation. As a result, a person may become closed to non-gamers, thereby alienating them from the rest of society. While there is evidence to support this argument, it is important to remember that video games are social activities, not mere hobbies. People who play video games should make an effort to socialize with others.
Despite the shift in demographics, video games are still an integral part of gaming. With the advent of mobile devices, the gaming industry has expanded and pushed to the forefront of the media landscape. Just like early fans rallied around niche forums, today’s users also rally around mobile gaming. Gaming blogs and social media sites are full of gaming-related commentary and gossip. As a result, independent developers are increasingly getting their game out there in the spotlight.