A research discovered that violent video games can relieve stress more effectively than meditation.
A study published in the journal Behavioural Brain Research has found that even violent video games can reduce physiological stress. The study involved 82 volunteers aged 18 to 40, who were given an artificially increased stress level using the Socially Evaluated Cold Pressor Test (SECPT). They were then divided into two groups: one played violent scenes from the game A Plague Tale: Requiem and the other played peaceful fragments of the same game.
During the experiment, the researchers recorded electrocardiograms, took saliva samples, and interviewed participants. On a subjective level, those who experienced combat scenes reported increased stress. However, biological indicators, including a decrease in heart rate and cortisol levels, showed that stress decreased in both groups. This discrepancy between self-perception and actual changes in the body suggests that people often misjudge their condition. Participants likely interpreted the intensity of gameplay as additional stress, although the body was actually relaxing at that time.
Overall, 79% of participants had previous experience playing video games, averaging 4–5 hours per week. The developers emphasize that although the study was conducted on the example of only one game, the results indicate the potential of gaming as an anti-stress practice. In the future, the authors plan to test the body's response to other genres, including ultra-dynamic action games such as Doom Eternal or Doom: The Dark Ages.
In a recent large-scale survey, 86% of U.S. veterans say video games help them cope with stress. The study confirmed that video games can effectively reduce stress levels, even those with violent scenes. The research is consistent with large-scale surveys, showing that 89% of gamers say that video games help them relieve stress. The game gives a sense of control, achievement, and distraction from routine, all of which reduce anxiety. However, excessive enthusiasm, lack of sleep, and online toxicity spoil the effect. Fast-paced competitions or PvP can cause as much stress as calm.
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Jenny, the tech wiz behind Jenny's Online Blog, loves diving deep into the latest technology trends, uncovering hidden gems in the gaming world, and analyzing the newest movies. When she's not glued to her screen, you might find her tinkering with gadgets or obsessing over the latest sci-fi release.What do you think of this blog? Write down at the COMMENT section below.
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