Be social, make friends and play video games

Video games have become a very social form of entertainment, with teams and players cooperating to reach a common goal. Video games increasingly are played on social network sites such as Facebook promoting online gaming achievements and interactions.

Over 70% of gamers play with a friend, by playing against each other or working cooperatively in a team. Games such as World of Warcraft open up virtual worlds and communities that extend far beyond the computer screen. Playing video games in teams, with other players can benefit your social development if it is done in moderation.

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More research
The Benefits of Playing Video Games, Isabela Granic, Adam Lobel, and Rutger C. M. E. Engels, 2014

Teens, Video Games and Civics, Lenhart, A & Kahne, J, 2008, http://www.pewinternet.org/2008/09/16/teens-video-games-and-civics/

Videogames and Wellbeing: A Comprehensive Review, Gaming Research Group, Young and Well Cooperative Research Centre – Dr Daniel Johnson

Connect online

Gamers have the ability to connect with players locally or team up with people from countries around the world. A large proportion of young people playing multiplayer games have developed good friendships with people they met online.

Video games have created a fun and engaging way of connecting with people and can act as an important teaching tool in developing social skills. Video games can help develop cooperation skills and supporting skills as players have the option to work together to form alliances and create teams working cooperatively. Many video games often result in better outcomes if players work together, encouraging players to be social. Video games also provide the players with the opportunity to take a leader’s position, which requires greater social networking skills and team work to keep other players happy.

These skills are important in the outside world for creating and maintaining friendships, especially in school and work environments. Studies have shown that playing video games, including violent video games can create and improve friendships amongst players. Players can be fighting against each other in the game but are developing their friendship as they work together and share the experience.

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