Alternative Health Blog

Some things just make sense, even if there are at least two sides to every story. Here’s the makes-sense part: A new study from Brigham Young University researchers shows that playing video games more frequently leads to more risky behavior using alcohol and drugs, plus lower self-esteem and rockier relationships.

The other side of the story:  "This does not mean that every person who plays video games has low self-worth, or that playing video games will lead to drug use," says Laura M. Padilla-Walker, lead research of the study.

Yet the study’s findings are hard to dispute. In a year-long evaluation of 500 college women and 313 college males, there is a clear correlation between playing video games and unhealthy behaviors.

What is likely not surprise you is that males are eight times more likely than women to play violent video games—a particular product niche that heightens substance abuse and poor relationships. Overall, males are three times more likely than females to play video games.

Psychology researchers have debated for more than a decade whether video games directly affect behavior or if there is some other factor that separates the video gamer into a negative category. This particular study, which involved students on a consistent and deep basis for 12 months, even awarding class credits, provides some of strongest empirical data to date.

In any case, no matter the gender, increased video gaming led to increased negative behavior and lower quality of life.

Parents will find it compelling to note that the BYU scientists also found that using the Internet for chat rooms, shopping entertainment and pornography are similarly linked to poor health choices. Yet accessing the Internet for schoolwork—women are significantly more likely to do so—is associated with "a plethora of positive outcomes."

The study, published in last month’s issue of the Journal of Youth and Adolescence, will require further research to confirm the findings. But, honestly, some things just make sense.

Bob Condor blogs for Alternative Health Journal every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.