Why do games have an impact on our emotions?
As a big fan of games, especially RPG games which often have engaging storylines, I’ve sometimes wondered why I become emotionally invested in them. Despite knowing that it’s just a game, a part of me still reacts as if it’s real.
Games have an impact on our emotions because they engage us on multiple levels. First, they often involve a story or narrative that can elicit emotional responses such as joy, excitement, fear, sadness, or anger. As players progress through the game, they may become attached to certain characters, feel a sense of accomplishment or satisfaction from overcoming challenges, or experience disappointment or frustration when things don’t go as planned.
Second, games often involve a sense of agency or control, which can be emotionally empowering. Players can make choices and see the consequences of those choices play out in the game world, which can provide a sense of accomplishment, mastery, or even guilt if a choice leads to negative outcomes.
Third, games can also provide a sense of social connection and belonging. Multiplayer games, in particular, can create a sense of camaraderie, competition, or collaboration that can be emotionally rewarding.
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What many people don’t realize is that our subconscious mind can’t distinguish between real and imagined experiences, and it takes games more seriously than we might think. When we get emotionally connected to the characters in the game, our subconscious mind takes the events happening in the game seriously, even though our conscious mind might view it as just a form of entertainment.
This can help us understand why some gamers become angry or why there is concern that games can lead to violence. Our emotional response to games is rooted in our subconscious mind’s inability to differentiate between real and imagined experiences.
The psychological effect of games
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Indeed, when we identify with the characters in a game, our subconscious mind can become deeply involved in the game’s environment. As a result, the emotions that the characters experience can be transferred to us, and we can become emotionally invested in the game.
For example, in a story-based game like Final Fantasy VII, the touching story can evoke strong emotions in the players. This concept is similar to how movies can affect our emotions.
Additionally, games often communicate values and messages to the player, whether consciously or unconsciously. Some games can impart positive values, such as courage, sacrifice, and teamwork, while others may communicate values that are not as beneficial. For example, watching the “Walking Dead” series can make one more cooperative and tough, as the show communicates these values to the viewer.
In conclusion, games can have a significant impact on our emotions, as our subconscious mind can become involved in the game’s environment and characters, and games can communicate values and messages to us.
Is there a connection between playing video games and acts of violence?
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Can playing video games lead to violence? The answer to this question is not straightforward. It depends on the type of game being played. Games that depict killing but have a well-crafted storyline that provides a clear purpose for the violence are less likely to have a negative impact.
It’s worth noting that there are few games that depict purposeless killing, which is why video games are often unfairly blamed for promoting violence. Some games can actually promote positive personality traits and values. Just as seeing a role model do something good can inspire us to do the same, seeing a game’s protagonist act in a positive way can also teach us valuable lessons.
In conclusion, video games are not just for kids, as they can have a profound impact on our mind, psychology, and personality, regardless of our age.
Games can be immersive and provide a temporary escape from the stresses and worries of daily life. This can create a sense of relaxation or even euphoria, which can also impact our emotions 😀
- Immersion: Games often create immersive experiences that allow us to escape from reality and enter into a different world or role. This can trigger emotions such as excitement, curiosity, or even fear.
- Sense of achievement: Games often provide a sense of accomplishment and progress as we play. The feeling of achieving goals, completing challenges, or mastering new skills can lead to a sense of pride and satisfaction.
- Social connection: Many games involve social interaction, whether it’s playing with friends or participating in an online community. This social connection can trigger positive emotions like joy, camaraderie, and a sense of belonging.
- Emotional storytelling: Some games feature complex and emotional storylines that can elicit a wide range of feelings, from sadness and empathy to hope and inspiration.
- Competition: Many games involve competition, either against the game itself or against other players. The rush of adrenaline that comes with the desire to win or succeed can lead to excitement and thrill, or even frustration and anger.
Overall, the emotional impact of games is a result of their ability to engage us on multiple levels, providing a compelling and often rewarding experience 😎
