It’s nothing unusual to hear parents, politicians, educators and researchers calling video games an utter waste of time. So, when Joe Rogan, the popular American comedian, mixed martial arts colour commentator and podcaster reiterated the harmful effects of playing video games, it did not come up as a surprise to online gaming scholars. They are accustomed to listening to people calling gamers aimless children. However, for someone who was starting to develop a passion for gaming, this statement coming from the most popular face and voice or what if we say, “another critique of online gaming” can be discouraging. So, we thought why not look at the bright side of it for a change and get a reality check done.
It’s easy to put accusations on things without stepping into the shoes of the experiencer. Many claim it’s a source of “addiction” and “obsession” but then, if you are to go down that road, why excuse activities like cat-hoarding, alcoholism, driving (for causing air pollution) and similar such equally damaging hobbies. At least, gaming was a saviour to all those who were stuck at home during the Covid-19 lockdown, restoring the fun element and safely connecting gamers to others through video games! Agree? Moreover, online casinos had reserved for players a rich selection of casino slot games and generosity of bonuses. No wonder it attracted the attention of several gambling enthusiasts and witnessed a spike in demand during the unsettling times! And all that was needed to enjoy the perks of online gaming was to go, for instance, to the Vulkan Vegas login page and either sign up or log in to your account in mere seconds.
Gaming Is All About Having Fun!
It’s a disgrace to call something which evokes joy in the hearts of gamers a “waste of time.” Don’t you think so? And mind it, the hobby is quite popular not just among Canadians but Americans, Filipinos, Japanese and South Koreans. Therefore, there must be a reason behind and that being “fun.” Absolutely, it’s entertaining, and something that excites and fills the heart with pleasure can never be a waste of time.
There are a host of activities in which people involve themselves. Sports, music, art, reading, travelling and dancing are just a few to name. They are all leisure activities, and not everyone makes a living out of them. Yet they embrace them wholeheartedly as hobbies. What for? Of course, for the sake of fun. In that case, don’t you think it would be unjustified to call gaming a mere waste of time? In simple words, it’s all about enjoying the experience which makes life worth living.
Video Gaming – A Victim of Value Judgement
Gaming indeed takes up a significant time from one’s life, and the case worsens when almost 12 hours of one’s day goes into the activity. But then, some people have self-control and know how to keep it within reasonable levels. Research also highlights cases where video game addiction is observed mostly in people undergoing certain conditions, such as autism spectrum disorder, depression, social anxiety, etc.
By calling gaming a mere waste of time, people indirectly hint at other productive ways of spending time. If you scrutinize the matter, you will agree with this being a value judgement. Many might find knitting to be quite impressive, but what’s the use of making a quilt when one’s available online? Think about it. Well with that said, they are in no way underestimating the hobby. The point is all about doing what you love. If it interests you, then be so. In fact, mix and match various activities together to live a balanced life, and engaging in fun activities like gambling or video gaming can bring spice to an otherwise mundane life.
Advice to Parents of Young Gamers
The constant complaints of parents, especially of children who spend most of their time gaming online instead of finishing off homework can come to an end with a little bit of change in attitude. The following is how you can agree with your child:
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Accept online gaming wholeheartedly
Whether you like it or not, online gaming is here to stay. Its popularity has skyrocketed with the presence of online gaming sites and their range of engaging games. Consequently, your child abandoning the same is quite unlikely. As parents, try not to criticize them for involving in this pastime. Rather, try asking them why is it so important to them. Most of the children feel it’s a good way to connect with friends, while others find it a great way to escape reality. Discover what’s your child’s reason.
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Show interest in online gaming
Even if you are not much of a fan, try asking your child whether you can play with them or watch them enjoy a round or two. In this way, try to understand how healthy space they are in. If you find it to be toxic, openly discuss the matter with them. However, most of the time, it’s quite fun with kids developing problem-solving skills, learning science and becoming more literate.
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Never equate hobbies with financial success
There’s no hard and fast rule that your hobby will pay off sometime in the future. It may, it may not. Gaming is no different. It’s a leisure pursuit and a source of pure joy. Parents must not value it on financial success.
Final Thoughts
It would be unfair to coin online gaming as a “waste of time.” Worried parents of game-addicted children must take a step back, reflect on the reasons for engaging in the activity and learn more about the environment. Who knows, your child is just having fun!
