Introduction
The rise of electronic sports, or eSports, has gained significant attention in recent years
Introduction
The rise of electronic sports, or eSports, has gained significant attention in recent years as the world of competitive gaming continues to grow in popularity. As technology advances and more people gain access to the internet, gaming has become a global phenomenon. While eSports has received criticism for being a waste of time and contributing to social isolation among youth, it has also been recognized for promoting teamwork and cognitive development. In this literature review, we will delve into the impact of eSports on youth to better understand the potential benefits and drawbacks of the industry.
The Potential Benefits of eSports for Youth
Proponents of eSports argue that it provides benefits for youth, such as promoting teamwork, improving cognitive abilities, and increasing social interactions. According to a study by Hamari, Sj?blom, and Ukkola (2017), playing eSports can improve cognitive abilities such as reaction time, visual tracking, and spatial awareness. Additionally, eSports requires teamwork and communication, which can also improve social interactions and promote cooperation.
The Potential Drawbacks of eSports for Youth
Opponents of eSports argue that it contributes to social isolation and addiction among youth. Many parents and educators are concerned that excessive gaming can interfere with academic performance and lead to addiction. According to a study by Vanden Abeele (2018), youth who play video games excessively are at higher risk for social isolation, anxiety, and depression. Furthermore, eSports could potentially lead to addiction and impair a child's ability to function in the real world.
The Role of Parents and Educators
Parents and educators play a vital role in overseeing their children's engagement in eSports. They can provide guidance and limit the amount of time their children spend playing video games while also encouraging them to seek other hobbies and interests. Likewise, educators can incorporate gaming into the curriculum to engage students and promote cognitive development. A study by Chen and Fu (2019) suggests that integrating gaming into the classroom can improve academic performance and boost student motivation.
The Future of eSports and Youth
The future of eSports and its impact on youth remains uncertain. While concerns have been raised about the potential drawbacks of the industry, there is also evidence that eSports can provide benefits for cognitive development and teamwork. As technology advances, the popularity of eSports is likely to continue growing, but policymakers and the gaming industry must work together to create a safe and healthy environment for youth to engage in online gaming.