Little Kitty, Big City

I’ve always found the contradictory nature of video games intriguing. While there are a number of people who believe that games can lead to real-life physical aggression, gun violence and antisocial behaviour, games are also being used as therapy – by psychologists and psychiatrists worldwide. Massey University relooked at 28 previous studies about the correlation between violence and video game use and found evidence that points in the opposite direction. Games could actually be associated with less violent behaviour. Another study from Lero, the Science Foundation Ireland Research Centre, found that games could help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. The researchers weren’t just looking at games created specifically for physical or psychotherapy, and included popular titles like Minecraft, Animal Crossing and Mario Kart.

While none of these titles are categorically aggressive (Minecraft does have that terrifying Ender Dragon when not playing in creative mode), the fact that they reduce anxiety makes a lot of sense. Games, like reading or streaming a series, are a way to reduce stress. This could be a quick round of Candy Crush on your cellphone or Mortal Kombat. Taking your in-life aggression online can be therapeutic. Creating all of your colleagues inside the world of The Sims and then watching them drown in a pool without a ladder is incredibly healing.