A new scientific study revealed that children who frequently play video games develop greater intelligence than those who do not. The results surprised even the researchers themselves.
The work was led by neuroscientist Torkel Klingberg. He analyzed the behavior of nearly 10,000 children between 9 and 10 years old in the United States. The cognitive improvement was clear in those who spend more time on this activity.
La mejora cognitiva fue clara en quienes dedican más tiempo a esta actividad
What did the study measure and how was it conducted?
The research team evaluated each child's screen time, including social media, television, and video games. Each one played for an average of one hour per day.
The scientists focused on measuring aspects such as:
Reading comprehension
Memory and visual processing
Cognitive flexibility and self-control
In this context, children who spent more time playing video games saw their IQ increase by 2.5 points more than the rest.
¿Qué midió el estudio y cómo se llevó a cabo?
What is the reason for this cognitive improvement?
The authors state that video games require certain mental skills that stimulate key brain functions. The study suggests that this type of entertainment is not only not harmful, but can be beneficial if consumed in adequate doses.
Additionally, they clarified that they did not analyze the impact of screen use on sleep, academic performance, or physical activity. This is why no conclusions can be drawn in those areas.
¿A qué se debe esta mejora cognitiva?
Video games are not the enemy
Far from prejudice, the research shows that playing video games doesn't hinder children's cognitive development. On the contrary, it can enhance it.
"Our results show that screen time, especially with video games, can be a tool to improve intelligence," Klingberg stated.
